@Joe Hohmann posted:In my case, I took a early retirement package, due to a take-over, from the company I had worked for 33 years. I was 55. At age 65 I found myself in the hospital with a heart rate that was twice normal. I said to myself, "Oh well, I've had 10 great years of retirement". Turns out a pill per day solved that problem, and I'm now 78 and have no "limitations". On the other hand, retirement can be a killer for those who have no hobbies or outside interests like we do.
Joe, what you say applies to me too.
I will share my experience because it might help you and many other Forum friends.
12 years ago, I developed symptoms of intermittent atrial fibulation at age 56. The symptoms included episodes of a racing heart and light-headedness that would typically last 20 to 30 minutes, and inpredictably happen 2 or 3 times per month.
I had various tests done by a cardiologist, which resulted in angioplasty and a stent for a partial blockage in a main artery leading to my heart, and I began religiously taking the cardiac cocktail of various pills, including blood thinners, blood pressure medication and cholesterol reducing medication. Once the blood pressure medication dosage was just right and I simultaneously started taking Krill Oil, all symptoms went away, and now I'm totally symptom free for over 5 years.
Everyone with cardiac related issues needs to consult with a good doctor to keep them stable, but for me, the best thing is not to baby myself, and stay as active and athletic as possible. The Covid crisis has increased my resolve to do this, and now I go 4 or 5 times per week for athletic (fast) continuous walks (no stopping) that are 45 to 75 minutes long in a State park near my house. These walks are a highlight of my day.
Of course, another highlight of my day and another way to stay active, often early in the morning or late at night, when my wife is asleep, are sessions in the basement tweaking the layout, running the trains, taking photos and videos of them, and posting them here, on this Forum. What great therapy and fun! What a wonderful way to enjoy one's semi or total retirement. Arnold
