Life after a heart attack – What to do next?
Many people who have a heart attack survive the incident, but how does a first-time patient ensure that they don’t become a second-timer? Fortunately, there are many practical changes you can make to reduce your risk of having a second attack.
Take your meds seriously
A cardiologist will prescribe medication to help your heart muscle heal and decrease the risk of another attack. Often the medication will target other problems too, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and / or diabetes. Tell your doctor if you experience any odd side effects to the medication so they can prescribe different medication if needed.
Be careful of over-the-counter (OTC) medication
Heart attack survivors need to be extra vigilant with over-the-counter medication. Talk to your doctor about which substances to avoid. Decongestants or flu remedies, for example, often contain stimulants that may place added stress on your heart.
Slow and steady wins the race
Physical activity is an important part of recovery, however it’s vital to ease into it. Start walking outside on a flat surface at a steady, medium pace and slowly increase the intensity and duration of your workout as you gain stamina and strength. Each individual is different and you must progress at your own rate. Listen to your body and don’t overexert yourself. If you feel shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness or chest pain, contact your doctor immediately.
It can take the heart muscle six to eight weeks to recover from a heart attack: aim for moderate physical activity such as walking, swimming or cycling.
Mind your mental health
Depression is not uncommon after a heart attack. The sudden reality that you’re not invincible can be a real blow for many. Depending on the severity of the strain on your heart, the recovery period can stretch from weeks to months, affecting your ability to work and participate in everyday activities. A solid support system of family and friends is key to getting through this difficult period.
Trans fats are not your friend
Trans fats are the worst kind of fat; they raise your level of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol contributing to heart disease and other health concerns. These fats are typically found in the following foods:
- Various baked goods such as biscuits, cakes, crackers, pancakes, rusks and muffins
- Non-dairy coffee creamer
- Various chips and packaged / microwave popcorn
- Fried foods
- Frozen dough products, such as frozen pizza and pies
- Margarine
Many manufacturers no longer include trans fats in their food processing – read food labels for information. However, it’s best to avoid packaged, processed foods altogether – even if they don’t contain trans fats. Try to keep your diet as clean and close to nature as possible. Food in its natural state is brimming with disease-fighting nutrients that boost heart health.
Be alert
If you start having any chest pains after your heart attack or you notice unusual breathlessness, inform your doctor immediately. According to a report by the Women’s Heart Foundation, women take an alarming two to four hours longer to respond to the symptoms of a heart attack than men. If you’re at risk of having a heart attack, do whatever you can to limit that possibility: don’t wait for a heart attack to happen before you see the signs.