Having a heart attack increases the risk of having another. To fully recover and reduce the risk of another heart attack, it is important to participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program and take the necessary steps to reduce as many risk factors as possible. After a heart attack, establishing an exercise program, eating a healthy diet, managing stress and possibly taking medications will all be part of the treatment approach.
Identification
The heart is a muscle which needs an adequate amount of blood and oxygen to function properly. When it is starved for either, cells within the heart muscle can die which leads to a heart attack, or myocardial infarction. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute claims that most people survive heart attacks and can live normal and active lives especially with prompt treatment. Quick treatment can reduce the amount of damage that occurs and improve the chances of a full recovery.
Considerations
According to the Cleveland Clinic, it takes approximately two to three months to recover from a heart attack. There will be a period of feeling tired and weak due to the damage to the heart muscle and from the bed rest that was necessary. A cardiologist will provide instructions as to when it is OK to resume various activities. Initially it will be important to conserve energy and rest when needed. Heavy exercise, pushing, pulling, lifting and climbing stairs may all be restricted for some time.
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program that determines a safe level of exercise or exertion after a cardiac event such as a heart attack, or it can be used to prevent a heart attack in high-risk patients. Exercise intensity is advanced in stages and often monitored closely by using blood pressure machines, ECG monitoring and stress tests. The exact protocol followed depends on the severity of the heart attack and the patient's overall state of health. It also involves education on good nutrition, occupational advice, managing stress, family issues and the use of medication. Cardic rehab often begins before being discharged from the hospital and can continue for weeks or months depending on individual situations.
Reducing Risk Factors
Heat attacks are often caused by coronary artery disease which refers to the buildup of plaque along the artery walls. This causes the arteries to become hard and narrow and restricts the amount of blood and oxygen that can reach the heart muscle. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends taking steps to treat coronary artery disease to help prevent another heart attack from occurring. This involves weight loss if necessary and eating a diet low in cholesterol, fat and salt. Quitting smoking is also a major concern as tobacco can damage blood vessels. A registered dietitian is usually a part of the health care team and can recommend dietary changes that incorporate personal likes and dislikes along with healthier eating habits.
Managing Emotions
Having a heart attack can cause fear, depression, isolation and many other emotions. The lifestyle changes that are necessary afterward can be stressful and scary. The Yale School of Medicine warns that stress itself can cause a narrowing of the arteries due to the hormones being released. In addition, they state that anxiety and depression can contribute to a second heart attack. This means it is important to get help from friends, family members and support groups to deal with all of the changes and emotions. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is essential. This can include counseling in handling stressful events that can not be changed or learning a meditation or relaxation technique. Healing from a heart attack must involve a multidisciplinary approach that addresses the whole person---body, mind and soul.
References
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: Life After a Heart Attack
- Cleveland Clinic: Recovery After a Heart Attack
- American Heart Association: Cardiac Rehabilitation
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Getting Back Into Your Life After a Heart Attack
- Yale School of Medicine: Stress, Behavior and Heart Disease
