What is cardiac rehabilitation?
Cardiac rehabilitation is a program designed to help patients who have had a heart attack or undergone heart surgery recover through exercise, lifestyle changes and information on how to overcome heart problems. Cardiac rehabilitation is intended to support the patient and their family to help them return to daily life.
Why is cardiac rehabilitation performed?
Cardiac rehabilitation aims to make recovery for cardiac patients a team effort, rather than patients facing the burden of recovery on their own. With proper guidance and education, it is hoped that patients will be able to return to their daily activities sooner and avoid future cardiac problems.
Maintaining an active lifestyle with balanced diet and exercise is essential for patients who have suffered cardiac problems
Who is cardiac rehabilitation for?
Cardiac rehabilitation may be suitable for people who have suffered:
- A heart attack
- Heart surgery
- Coronary angioplasty
- Heart failure
- Have an internal defibrillator
What does cardiac rehabilitation involve?
There are three key parts of a successful cardiac rehabilitation program:
- Exercise: to improve cardiovascular health, a nurse or physical therapist may visit you to help tailor an exercise program for you.
- Education: on how to lead a heart-healthy lifestyle, with information on diet, how to quit smoking and how to manage risk factors.
- Therapy: this part aims to reduce stress in a patient’s life and give guidance on how stress can be better managed.
How does one prepare for cardiac rehabilitation?
No preparation is needed for cardiac rehabilitation, you will usually be visited by a member of the cardiac rehabilitation team as soon as you recover in the hospital. You will be told in detail about your condition, the treatment you will require and your ongoing recovery. Once you have left the hospital, you will usually begin the program four to eight weeks after surgery.
What happens after cardiac rehabilitation?
After completing cardiac rehab, it is important to continue your exercise and new healthy lifestyle to ensure your heart health.