Cardiac rehabilitation provides total heart care
Today, Valentine's Day, everyone should be thinking about their heart. But, if your heart skipped more than a beat, or should be pittering instead of pattering, you may need to give it a little extra TLC.
This is cardiac rehabilitation week. Those of you who aren't familiar with cardiac rehabilitation programs have most likely been lucky enough to not have needed it. But, for those of you who have suffered a major heart event, cardiac rehabilitation might give you back your quality of life and peace of mind.
We never expect to be diagnosed with a life-threatening heart ailment. But the facts are that coronary heart disease is still the single leading cause of death in the United States, according the American Heart Association. Many of these deaths are caused by repeat events, which might have been avoided through diet and lifestyle change.
If you have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease, heart failure, angina, peripheral artery disease, cardiomyopathy, or have had a heart attack, coronary artery bypass surgery or stents, or heart valve surgery, enrolling in a cardiac rehabilitation program is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Research has consistently shown a twenty-five to thirty percent decrease in cardiovascular mortality, and a major decrease in instances of re-hospitalization and repeat events.
A good cardiac rehabilitation program uses four main components. These components involve undergoing a medical evaluation, getting physically active, getting educated on lifestyle change, and getting the support needed to see it through.
The cardiac rehabilitation program at Bonner General Hospital is physician directed and run by registered nurses skilled in cardiovascular health. They will work closely with you and your physician to personalize your treatment. Before you begin the program, you will undergo a thorough evaluation to assess your medical history, physical abilities and any limitations you might have. Ongoing monitoring will ensure a safe and effective recovery process.
Gone are the days when bed rest was the recommended recovery following a heart attack. The best and most effective way to recover, and to lessen the chance of a repeat event is through physical activity. Activities such as walking, cycling and strength training are imperative to improving your physical health and general well-being.
Diet and nutrition play an important part as well, with emphasis on breaking unhealthy habits such as smoking and eating fatty foods. Dietary experts will help you customize an eating plan that's right for you, while paying special attention to reducing fat, sodium and cholesterol.
Undergoing a serious health problem might be a shock to our system in more ways than one. Having someone to talk to about your health problem and its repercussions might be just what the doctor ordered. Also, getting to know others who have been through similar situations can make recovery seem like less of a daunting prospect.
To register for the cardiac rehabilitation program offered at BGH, speak to your physician about a referral. If you are interested in learning more about the program, please call (208)265-7480.