INCORPORATE CARDIAC REHAB INTO YOUR RECOVERY PLAN
From exercises to emotional support, learn what to expect from a cardiac rehabilitation program. Discuss with your doctor to learn more.
YOUR HEART HEALTH:
INCORPORATE CARDIAC REHAB INTO YOUR RECOVERY PLAN
Key Takeaways
YOUR REHAB PROGRAM IS CUSTOM-TAILORED
Because each person’s needs are different, your cardiac rehabilitation program will likely be custom tailored to your age, gender, body type, and other factors specific to you.
EXERCISE, AND THEN SOME
Your cardiac rehab program may include physical exercises, plus help with making healthy food choices.
YOU’RE NOT ALONE
Your cardiac rehab team will include a doctor and may also include a nurse, a dietician and a physical therapist. Whether you’ve had a recent heart surgery or heart attack, you sure don’t want to go through it all over again in the future. That’s why doctors recommend cardiac rehab. It’s a customized outpatient program designed just for you and your unique heart condition with your cardiologist’s input.
Whether you’ve had a recent heart surgery or heart attack, you sure don’t want to go through it all over again in the future. That’s why doctors recommend cardiac rehab. It’s a customized outpatient program designed just for you and your unique heart condition with your cardiologist’s input.
What to Expect
In cardiac rehab, you’ll work with a team of health professionals. Depending on your goals, your team will include a doctor and may also include a nurse specialist, a dietitian, an exercise therapist, and a physical therapist.
Your program may consist of four components:
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Medical evaluation: Your health care team will look at your risk factors and tailor a safe, effective program designed for your individual situation.
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Exercise program: You can improve your cardiovascular fitness through walking, cycling, or other endurance activities – and may do some strength training as well. You'll also be taught proper exercise techniques, such as warming up and stretching. The rehabilitation team will make sure the program moves at a comfortable pace and is safe for you. Be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin any exercise routine.
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Lifestyle education: You may also receive support and education on making lifestyle changes and breaking unhealthy habits, including making better food choices and quitting smoking. You may also learn how to how manage pain or fatigue and get advice on taking your medications.
- Emotional support: Adjusting to a serious health problem often takes time. Counseling can help you learn healthy ways to cope with depression and other feelings.
Your New Normal Will Beat Your Old Normal
One of the main purposes of your cardiac rehabilitation program is help you find heart-healthy ways to be your best. As you get stronger and healthier, while adjusting to new eating habits and lifestyle changes, you can look forward to a much brighter and happier future.
HEART ATTACK SURVIVOR STORIES
BETTY B
"I am thankful for each day and the opportunities it brings to share my experiences with others."
KEN L
"I’ve changed my diet to minimize fat and salt. I’m learning to read labels and make healthy choices."
CINDY B
"It all comes down to listening – the cardiologists listening to us, and not just with their stethoscopes – and us listening to the cardiologists. Without both of these, there are no winners!"
RANDY W
"I now take a low dose Bayer Aspirin regimen, and I was told that the aspirin I was given during my heart attack helped save my life! Thanks for being there for me Bayer!"
Aspirin regimen products for recurrent heart attack prevention
Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen.
Bayer® Aspirin is available in a variety of doses and forms.
Learn more by clicking on a product below.
Use as directed.
