Every year in the United States, more than 800,000 people have a heart attack, including about 200,000 people with a previous one. Caring for yourself after a heart attack is especially important for reducing your risk of having a subsequent episode and for helping avoid other serious problems, as well.
Bharat Gandhi, MD of Medinet Family Care Clinic in Houston, Texas, offers individualized wellness programs for patients who’ve had heart attacks or are at risk for heart disease.
A heart attack is a life-changing event, so it’s normal to feel anxious and stressed afterward. Of course, stress and anxiety are bad for your heart (and your overall wellness, too). Finding a support group — whether in person or online — is a great way to share those feelings with others, so you can focus on the positive aspects that can help you stay healthy. Dr. Gandhi can help you find a group locally, and the American Heart Association website can help you connect online.
Cardiac rehabilitation is like physical therapy for your heart. Every session is medically supervised, and you’ll learn exercises, stress management techniques, and lifestyle tips to help you protect your heart and overall health. Rehab programs are available at many hospitals and medical centers, and we will optimize your rehab program just for you.
After a heart attack, following a heart-healthy diet and incorporating cardio into your routine are more critical than ever. The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of cardio exercise five days a week (150 minutes total) to keep your heart in good shape. As far as diet, cut out empty calories and “bad” fats, fill up on fiber, and watch your portion sizes. You can find more heart-healthy eating tips here.
After a heart attack, you might be given medicines to decrease your blood pressure, reduce your heart’s workload, lower cholesterol levels, manage stress, or prevent blood clots, among other things. Your medicines are prescribed for a reason, so don’t skip or alter doses. If you have side effects or questions about your medicines, call the office so we can help.
If you’ve had one heart attack, your risk of having a second one increases. Knowing the signs of a heart attack can ensure you get the care you need as quickly as possible. Chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and pain in your arm or neck are all relatively common signs, but they’re not the only ones. Familiarize yourself with this list and call 9-1-1 at the first sign of an attack.
After a heart attack, one of the most important things you can do for your health and peace of mind is to stay positive. And one of the best ways to do that is to have regular heart checkups with Dr. Gandhi. During your visit, he’ll evaluate your heart health, order necessary tests, and help you stay on track with your healthy lifestyle. Regular visits are also a great time to ask questions so you can feel confident about your heart health.
If you’ve had a heart attack or have risk factors for heart disease, don’t put off getting the care. Schedule an appointment with Medinet Family Care Clinic in Houston
