Healthline Today: Sexual activity and heart attacks

In this week’s Healthline - Dr. Jim Lenhart talks about a sensitive topic, but one that could impact folks with heart conditions. Just a warning - some of the language may not be appropriate for younger viewers.

     The American Heart Association has released a statement that synthesizes data relevant to sexual activity and heart disease. Aiming to provide scientific recommendations to patients about sexual activity, the Association's advice is based on published studies.
 
     Sexual activity is an important component of life for both men and women and inhibited sexual activity is common in patients following cardiac events. According to the AHA sexual dysfunction after a heart attack is often related to anxiety, depression and fear - fear, which fortunately, is usually not warranted.

     Here's why.

     During foreplay, blood pressure and heart rate increase mildly, with modest increases for a short time during sexual arousal. The greatest increases occur during the 10 to 15 seconds of orgasm, with a rapid return to baseline blood pressure and heart rate thereafter. Studies conducted in young married men showed that sexual activity with a person's usual partner is comparable to mild to moderate physical activity - the equivalent of climbing 2 flights of stairs or walking briskly for a short period of time.

     Although sexual activity is associated with an increased risk of adverse heart events, the absolute rate of events is miniscule because most sexual activity is of short duration. In fact, sexual activity is the cause of less than 1% of all acute heart attacks. In an autopsy report of nearly 6000 instances of sudden death, only 0.6% occurred during sexual intercourse. Two other autopsy studies reported similar rates.

     And here's something that may or may not surprise you.
 
      Of the study subjects who died during sex, 82% to 93% were men, and 75% were having extramarital sexual activity, with a younger partner, in an unfamiliar setting after excessive food and alcohol consumption.
 
     Oops!

     For questions or comments email me drjim@drjimshealthline.com. Be Healthy! Be Happy! and join me next time on Healthline Today!

(DISCLAIMER): Opinions on this station and the web of Dr. Jim Lenhart  are educational and informational and are not a diagnosis, treatment or substitute for professional medical advice.  Consult a physician or health care professional for your health or medical needs.