Had A Heart Attack? 5 Steps To Take
If you have recently had a heart attack, it is important to be aware that you have a long road ahead of you to recovery. It is helpful to have the support of a medical team, and it is also beneficial to be familiar with how to prevent a second heart attack from occurring. Here are five steps that you need to take after having a heart attack.
Be Aware of the Symptoms
It is crucial that you are aware of the common symptoms and warning signs after having a heart attack. It is not uncommon to have another heart attack, and in most cases, the time frame that you receive medical treatment after the attack can literally mean the difference between life and death. Common warning signs of an attack include nausea, pain/pressure in the chest area, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Take Your Medication as It's Been Prescribed
Generally, you will be prescribed several different kinds of medications. Because of this, it may be difficult to keep track of everything, but it is imperative that you do so, no matter how you have to do it, regardless of whether you have to use a medication organizer, a calendar, or both. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle and Diet
Along with your medication, it is imperative that you take measures to improve your lifestyle that can reduce the chances of having a second heart attack. Changes that you may want to make include exercising more, reducing stress, and eating right.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you suspect that you are having a second heart attack, do not hesitate to get medical attention immediately. Even if it turns out that you weren't having an attack, it is always better to be safe than sorry and have that medical assessment performed.
Enroll in a Local Cardiac Rehabilitation Center
Last, but not least, you should consider enrolling yourself in a cardiac rehab program. Programs like these generally last for roughly 12 weeks, though they will vary by the program. During the sessions, you will be taught various healthy living concepts that will help ease you into leading a healthier lifestyle (which was mentioned earlier). You may even meet others who have been in a similar situation as yourself and can hear about their journeys. For more information, contact a local cardiac rehab and find out what they have to offer you.
