Lifestyle Changes Following Acute Myocardial Infarction: Patients Perspectives

Background: Cardiovascular disease accounts for 39% of all deaths in Ireland each year. Many of these deaths are due to acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The diagnosis of AMI has major implications for individuals in terms of health and social gain, health related quality of life and living and adapting to a chronic illness. The diagnosis requires lifestyle changes such as changes to diet, smoking habit, physical activity, and stress management. Aims: The aim of this descriptive qualitative study was to explore patients' perspectives of making lifestyle changes following AMI. Methods: Using a descriptive qualitative approach, ten participants were interviewed 6 weeks following discharge about their experiences. Data were collected using in depth interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Research Findings: Four themes emerged: lifestyle warning signs, taking responsibility for lifestyle changes, professional support and looking forward to the future. The findings offer insight into the everyday realities, which patients experience regarding lifestyle changes particularly in relation to smoking cessation and stress management. The difficulties encountered by participants 6 weeks following discharge reflect the implementation of too many life style changes at once as well as the lack of professional help in the community to support participants in their endeavours to make lifestyle changes. In addition, overprotection by family members was a source of frustration and aggravation for participants. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for the development of primary care services and cardiac rehabilitation programmes to support patients as well as providing information to families to reduce anxiety and fear.