Heart attacks can be incredibly scary for most and require immediate care. After a heart attack, many patients wonder what the recovery process entails. In short: lifestyle changes and medication will likely be necessary. Some patients also choose to enroll in cardiac rehabilitation programs for a faster recovery, depending on if their physician recommends this option. Let's look at what recovery from a heart attack looks like for many patients.
Immediate treatment
After a heart attack is diagnosed, doctors perform heart catheterization to treat it. As a heart attack typically occurs due to a blocked artery, catheterization focuses on opening the vessel with the help of a balloon followed by placing a stent. This procedure is considered the most effective in treating a heart attack.
Recovery time after treatment
The recovery time for every individual depends on the following factors:
- How severe your heart attack was?
- How early were you treated?
- Your habits before and after a heart attack
- Overall condition
In most cases, people can continue their normal day-to-day activities, including their job, after several weeks. Your doctor may want follow-up tests and lifestyle changes to ensure a solid recovery.
Physical effects of heart attack
After having a heart attack, you may feel tired and weak. Also, you may experience shortness of breath and discomfort in your chest. It is also common for you to struggle mentally. You may feel anger, sadness, guilt, and fear.
Cardiac rehabilitation
Many hospitals offer a cardiac rehabilitation program, which can significantly help you recover after a heart attack. There will be activities in the rehab program that can help bring improvement in your heart's function. Moreover, these programs offer great support to deal with depression or anxiety.
Lifestyle changes
You have to make some lifestyle changes to improve your heart health and reduce the risk of another heart attack.
Quit all tobacco use
Quitting smoking is crucial for every heart attack survivor. Moreover, it is necessary to avoid secondhand smoke as well.
Exercise
Regular exercise is beneficial for the health of your heart. Not only does it make your heart stronger, but it also aids in weight reduction; being overweight makes you prone to a heart attack.
Eat a heart-healthy diet
A heart-healthy diet contains a low amount of salt and saturated fats. It is essential for your recovery from a heart attack. Mediterranean diet, which includes vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fish, is considered the best diet for heart attack survivors.
Blood pressure control
High blood pressure can trigger another heart attack. Therefore, keeping your blood pressure in the normal range is necessary. Reducing salt intake, exercising, losing weight, and taking medications are ways to keep blood pressure down. Additionally, if you are stressed and mentally exhausted, talk to your doctor in detail. The doctor can recommend ways to deal with negative emotions or recommend a specialist to help.
Do not skip your medications
If you have to take medication following a heart attack, strictly adhere to the doctor's orders for a successful recovery. Moreover, don't miss any doctor's appointments following the attack. Your physician will want to check on your progress and make sure you are actively recovering.
