According to the CDC, about one in four people who have had a heart attack will have another one in their lifetime. The chances of having a second heart attack are greatly reduced, however, if patients go through a cardiac rehabilitation program, which strengthens the heart and encourages healthy living for overall wellness. If you or a loved one has recently suffered a heart attack, here’s what you need to know about how cardiac rehabilitation can help:

What is cardiac rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation is a supervised exercise and educational program that helps patients strengthen their heart and live healthier lives. A team of doctors, nurses, physical therapists, nutritionists, and other health care specialists will create a customized program that fits your lifestyle and medical needs. The main goal of cardiac rehabilitation is to lower the likelihood of future heart problems. Through the program you will learn to:

• Improve physical fitness

• Exercise safely

• Manage other cardiovascular risk factors

• Adopt a heart-healthy diet

People who complete cardiac rehabilitation programs gain greater control of their health and report feeling better both physically and emotionally. 

How does cardiac rehabilitation help?

In addition to strengthening your heart and body after a heart attack and reducing the chances of another incident, cardiac rehabilitation offers many short and long term benefits:

• Relieves symptoms of heart problems, including chest pain

• Reduces stress and improves mood

• Increases energy and strength to make daily activities easier

• Builds healthier habits 

• Promotes consistent use of prescribed medications that lower the risk of future heart problems

Cardiac rehabilitation is the key to optimizing your heart health for the long-haul. 

What happens during cardiac rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation programs usually last around three months, with sessions a few times a week. In general, programs include a combination of supervised exercise training to improve cardiovascular fitness. Exercises will include both aerobic exercise and strength training using weights or elastic bands and will be personalized according to your physical abilities and the severity of your heart condition. Sessions will also include nutrition counseling to improve your diet, education about your condition so you’re fully informed about your health, and skills-building activities and emotional support.

Who needs cardiac rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation is important for anyone who has recently had a heart attack, heart transplant, or heart surgery for other cardiovascular conditions. Unfortunately, studies show that women tend to be less likely to enroll in a rehab program after heart problems, and older adults are also more reluctant due to a belief that they are unable to exercise. This puts them at higher risk for future heart problems. The good news is that cardiac rehab specialists create customized programs to work around anyone’s perceived obstacles, so everyone can reap the benefits and strengthen their heart.

Where are cardiac rehabilitation programs available?

While some cardiac rehabilitation programs are available in the hospital, most programs are offered at rehabilitation centers that have all the necessary equipment and personnel on site. Your surgeon or cardiovascular doctor can help you find and select a local rehabilitation center that will get you on the path toward heart-healthy living.

Cardiac rehabilitation in San Diego

Bella Vista Health Center offers cardiac rehabilitation programs in San Diego that are focused on helping patients regain their independence and live healthier lives at home. Our customized programs and team of compassionate medical professionals are committed to helping you meet your recovery goals. For more information about cardiac rehabilitation or to schedule a tour of our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility, call Bella Vista Health Center at (619) 644-1000.