Recovering From a Heart Attack

Heart attacks happen every day. Though they are serious life-threatening events, survivors often return to their normal lives. Outlined below are some steps and tips to help you recover from a heart attack. Always consult your doctor as you add new activities or routines to your life after a heart attack.

The American Heart Association recommends the following lifestyle changes after a heart attack. They are as easy to remember as the ABC's.

• Avoid Tobacco- Smoking after a heart attack doubles your chance of having a second attack.
• Become More Active- Regular doctor approved exercise will help keep your weight down and can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Physical activity is also an excellent way to avoid depression and lower stress levels.
• Choose Good Nutrition- Making good food choices and learning more about foods that benefit the heart can help you control your weight, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and help your body heal faster.

A cardiac rehabilitation program will be one of your best tools in fighting off future heart problems. The rehabilitation is aimed at healing your heart and teaching you how to manage heart disease. The AHA lists the following as the main tenants of a good cardiac rehabilitation program:

• Counseling on how to manage cardiovascular disease
• Beginning or restarting a modified exercise program
• Counseling on proper nutrition
• Counseling on modifying the risk factors of heart disease such as high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, inactivity, obesity and diabetes.
• Help in returning to work
• Supplying information on physical limitations
• Lending emotional support
• Counseling on the proper use of prescribed medications

Even the best rehabilitation program is only as successful as the patient is receptive. After a heart attack your best chance at avoid a second event is listening to the advice of your physician and making the necessary lifestyle changes.