Life After A Heart Attack
Living with heart disease can be a challenging and daunting experience, especially after a heart attack. However, proper exercise and lifestyle changes may improve a patient’s overall health and reduce the risk of future heart attacks. Working with a healthcare provider can guide people on the right lifestyle and exercise changes.
Get your heart rate up
Exercise is an essential part of any heart disease management plan. Regular physical activity can lower blood pressure (BP), improve cholesterol levels, and increase blood flow to the heart. Exercise can also reduce stress and improve mood. Walking requires no special equipment and is a great way to get started with exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. As fitness level improves, a person can gradually increase the intensity and duration of the walks.
Other low-impact exercises such as cycling, swimming, and yoga are great options for people with heart disease.
The right diet
In addition to regular exercise, people who have suffered a heart attack should make healthy lifestyle changes, including eating a balanced diet low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and salt. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds are great choices. After a heart attack, people should also limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking.
Take a deep breath
Managing stress is also crucial when living with heart disease. Stress can cause the heart to work harder, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Finding ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or talking to a therapist, can improve health.
Maintain a healthy weight
People who have suffered a heart attack should also aim to maintain a healthy weight. If a person is overweight, working towards weight loss can significantly reduce the risk of worsening heart issues. Carrying extra weight can put additional stress on the heart and can increase the risk of heart disease. Losing just a small amount of weight can significantly affect a person’s overall health.
The importance of health screenings
Regular check-ups with a doctor are essential to monitor a person’s heart health and ensure that the patient is on track with exercise and lifestyle changes. In addition, the doctor may also prescribe medications such as blood pressure or cholesterol-lowering drugs to help manage heart disease.
A heart-healthy lifestyle
Living with heart disease can be challenging, but with the proper exercise and lifestyle changes, improving overall health and reducing the risk of future heart attacks is possible. Always consult a doctor before starting any exercise program or making significant lifestyle changes. With the proper support, every individual can live a fulfilling and heart-healthy life.
