Getting healthier with cardiac rehab
If you or a loved one receives treatment for a heart condition, cardiac
rehabilitation (cardiac rehab) is an important part of the healing process.
Whether you're recovering from heart surgery or another type of treatment,
cardiac rehab programs are designed to help you grow stronger and reduce your risk
factors for future heart problems. Cardiac rehab is often recommended after
receiving treatment for the following conditions:
- Aortic stenosis
- Angina
- Atrial fibrillation
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Heart or lung transplant
Before cardiac rehab
As you prepare for your surgery or other treatment — open heart
surgery, minimally invasive surgery with robotic assistance, angioplasty,
stenting, or another type of therapy — your cardiologist will explain what to expect when the
procedure is over.
Some patients need to spend time in the hospital after surgery,
while others may go home the same day after being treated for a heart
condition. One thing most patients have in common is enrolling in a cardiac
rehab program. Once your heart specialist thinks you're ready, cardiac rehab
will be a big part of your healing process. Recovery can be frustrating but try
to stay focused on the increased quality of life you will have.
What is cardiac rehabilitation?
Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program to
improve your heart health and help prevent future heart disease. Everyone who
has had some type of heart treatment can benefit from a cardiac rehab program.
Cardiac rehab may be done in a rehab center, hospital,
short-term rehab facility, or at home. Your medical team will help you decide which option is
right for you. No matter where your cardiac rehab takes place, the cardiac
rehabilitation programs will be similar.
During cardiac rehab, you will work with a team of healthcare
professionals two to three times a week for three to six months.
Your cardiac rehab team may include a:
- Medical provider
- Physical therapist
- Occupational therapist
- Dietitian or nutritionist
- Mental health professional trained in stress management
What happens during cardiac rehab?
Cardiac rehab addresses your physical and mental health while
also helping you do what you need and want to do in your everyday life.
Your cardiac rehab team will start by asking about your medical
history and goals for the future. You will also have a medical exam that might
include blood work or tests to see how your heart is working. The team will
then help you make a customized plan to maintain heart health, avoid future
heart disease problems, and stay independent.
Your plan might include education about:
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Exercise training, such as riding a stationary bike and strength training
- How to check your blood pressure, pulse, or oxygen level
- How to quit smoking
- Managing other chronic health conditions
- Managing stress, relaxation techniques, and talking through the emotions you're feeling
- Ways to save energy when doing everyday tasks
Someone from your cardiac rehab team will be with you during
every session to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen level.
They will adjust your activity level as needed to keep you on track and avoid
any problems.
When you are ready to graduate from cardiac rehab, your team
will help you make a plan to stay healthy.
Benefits of cardiac rehab
There are plenty of good reasons to participate in a cardiac
rehab program. It will improve your quality of life, help maintain your heart health,
and may even add years to your life. Specific benefits include:
- A stronger heart
- Better overall strength
- Decreased risk of future heart problems
- Fewer symptoms, like chest pain and fatigue
- Increased energy level
Cardiac rehab can also make it easier for you to complete
everyday tasks and lower your stress levels, making it easier to reconnect with
the things you enjoy doing.
More things you can do to help your recovery after a heart procedure
In addition to cardiac rehab, here are other steps to consider
during your recovery:
- Ask for help when you need it.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet.
- Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for staying active.
- Get enough rest.
- Manage other chronic health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Set and work toward small goals.
- If you feel down, stay connected with friends and family or do something you enjoy.
Next steps
Whether you are just starting to prepare for a heart procedure or are already on your way to recovery, cardiac rehab can help.
Visit Reid Health
Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation for more information.