Live Life Team
The course of rehabilitation after a heart attack is lengthy. The person who had suffered a heart attack should be patient until full recovery is achieved. During the rehabilitation period, health professionals offer their help and support. Nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, physiotherapists and exercise specialists will support the affected person physically and mentally. They ensure that the process of recovery is safe and proper. Usually the recovery begins in hospital. Hospital has the necessary equipment and staffs for monitoring the condition of the patient closely. In hospital, they assess the future needs of the patient too, so that after discharge the patient’s rehabilitation goes on smoothly.
The life after heart attack will have certain challenges and difficulties, which the patient alone cannot manage. The patient needs external support by way of guidance and advice that are unique for that individual. The support groups comprise of such patients who have similar experiences. The Heart Helpline of the British Heart Foundation provides essential information related to recovery and keeping the heart healthy.
Can I do exercises even though I had a heart attack
You should keep yourself active. Exercise plays an important role in your recovery. Exercise enables your heart to gain more strength. Your general health also will improve. It can also prevent further attacks. Actually, you will be asked to do exercise while you are recovering in the hospital, with the help of an exercise specialist. You should continue the exercise at home, after being discharged from the hospital. Walking or swimming are usually advised.
When can I return to my normal activities after a heart attack
It depends on your physical and mental status. You can do your regular and routine domestic activities. Your resuming to the normal activities depends on your personal needs too. However, before returning to work, you should ensure that you have recovered adequately. You have to consult your GP to know about your fitness for returning to work.
What is a Heart Manual
It is a rehabilitation programme, which is home-based. People who are recovering after a heart attack, receive the Heart Manual. It comprises written materials, a workbook and audio tapes. It contains information and support needed for your recovery. Home-based exercises are illustrated in this. It focuses on maintenance of health and prevention of further heart attack. It also suggests ways and means to keep the mind stress-free.
How to maintain mental health during rehabilitation
Some people suffer with depression after the experience of a heart attack. Stress and anxiety are common in people who have suffered a heart attack. They may be worrying about returning to duty. However, depression has its impact on the speed of recovery. You should inform your GP if you have depression. If you vent out your worries with a health professional, your depression can come down. Undergoing a psychological assessment will help your doctor to know about your psychological problems.
Some important tips
- It is advisable not to drive at least for four weeks after a heart attack.
- You should not have any complication after this period, so that you will not be disqualified for driving.
- If you need to drive heavy-duty vehicles, you should inform the competent government authorities about the same.
- It may take four weeks after heart attack for you to resume sexual activity. However, this is subject to your feeling comfortable about it.
- It is important to know that sex will not increase the risk for another heart attack.
- If you have any problem related to involving in sex activity, you should consult your GP.
