Tips for Recovering from a Heart Attack
If you or a loved one has recently had a heart attack, you may be wondering what happens next in terms of recovering from a heart attack.
Because heart attacks differ in their severity and impact, the recovery process looks different for every patient, and full recovery could take weeks or months. Talk to your doctor and health team for specific recommendations and guidance given your medical history and the severity of your heart attack.
Knowing some general tips for recovering from a heart attack can help ease your mind and provide some direction. Recovery is a balance between rest and regaining strength. Rest gives your body time to repair and rebuild itself, but getting back to normal activity and easing back into exercise are also important steps in the recovery process.
While anyone who suffers a heart attack has increased risk for future heart problems, but those problems are not inevitable. Making healthy choices can improve your heart health and help you lead a life that is as active as it was before your heart attack.
Get back to your normal routine
The process of “getting back to normal” may start simply by getting up and getting ready for the day and slowly returning to your regular routine. Begin doing regular household duties as you feel ready. Ease into washing dishes, doing laundry, and other housework as your body feels able, but be cautious not to overexert yourself.
Spread your activity throughout the day
Pace yourself throughout the day, pay attention to your energy level, and take time to rest when needed. Don’t push yourself past your current ability. Your energy level will improve, but it may take some time.
Add exercise to your routine
As your recovery continues, exercise can be a key component of preventing future heart problems. If you need help finding exercises that work for your current ability level, talk to your doctor or health team. Walking may be right for some, while others may want to swim or use a stationary bike instead. Doing a little bit of exercise most days of the week can help your heart work more efficiently.
Eat a healthy diet
A healthy diet will help you lower cholesterol and manage blood pressure, as well as lose excess weight. A heart healthy diet is one focused on whole grains, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins.
Manage your emotions
Dealing with mental and emotional challenges will benefit your heart. Seek to lower your stress levels by stepping away from stressful situations or focusing on stress management techniques such as exercise or meditation. Reach out to a professional if you need help managing stress, anxiety, or depression, all of which may occur following a heart attack.
Follow all medical advice
Take your medicine as prescribed and schedule any recommended procedures. Procedures such as stent placement or medications to manage blood pressure or other heart conditions may be critical in reducing risk for future heart problems.
Complete a cardiac rehab program
At Oklahoma Heart Hospital, we have a program designed specifically for heart attack patients. Our Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation program focuses both on exercise and patient education. From nutrition and food preparation to stress management, our cardiac rehab program will lay the foundation for a successful recovery from heart attack.
If you have questions about recovery from a heart attack, contact Oklahoma Heart Hospital to schedule an appointment with one of our cardiologists.