Recovering from a heart attack or other serious heart condition can be a lengthy process that involves regaining strength and stamina and making lifestyle changes. Cardiac rehabilitation programs provide information on diet and nutrition, as well as emotional support. Cardiac Rehab also includes supervised exercise programs that help you strengthen your heart and body and reduce the chance of another heart-related problem.
Rehab Candidates
Cardiac rehabilitation, also known as cardiac rehab, is appropriate for people who have various types of heart disease. It is recommended for those who have experienced a heart attack, congestive heart failure, angina, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, congenital heart disease or peripheral arterial disease. It may also be helpful if you have had a heart valve replacement, heart transplant, bypass surgery or angioplasty. Patients of all ages are likely to benefit from rehabilitation.
Lifestyle Changes
Your cardiac rehabilitation team will prepare an individualized recovery plan for you based on your health and medical history. The team may make suggestions regarding healthy food choices, particularly if your previous diet included foods high in fat, cholesterol or salt. The team may also provide you with information on quitting habits that can contribute to heart disease, such as smoking or overeating, or explain how to better manage high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic conditions. A team member may also present information on pain medication and appropriate drugs for your condition.
Exercise
Exercise is a key component of a cardiac rehabilitation program and can reduce your risk of experiencing another serious heart problem. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute reports that participation in a cardiac rehabilitation program can reduce your risk of dying from a heart attack, decrease pain and medication usage, reduce the chance that you'll need to return to the hospital for a heart problem, improve overall health and reduce stress. Before you can begin an exercise program, you must undergo a medical examination and tests, which may include an electrocardiogram and blood tests. The team will tailor the exercise program to your fitness level and instruct you in the proper use of exercise machines and proper form. As you exercise, the team will monitor your blood pressure to ensure that the exercise is not too strenuous. The team will also provide you with information about the best way to exercise at home.
Support
Living with a heart problem can be difficult to deal with emotionally. Feelings of sadness, depression and anger are common following a heart attack or serious heart problem. These feelings can derail your cardiac rehabilitation program and increase your recovery time. Cardiac rehabilitation programs may include sessions with a mental health specialist, or individual or group counseling. Joining a support group with others who have the same types of problems may make you feel less alone and more positive about your rehabilitation and future.
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