Experiencing a heart attack can be a traumatic and life-changing event, often leading to fatal consequences. However, if you’ve experienced a heart attack and you’re reading this, it means that you’ve made it through the worst part. In order to prevent a repeat heart attack, there are some changes you may need to make to your diet or lifestyle.
Here’s how to live life after experiencing a heart attack:
- Reduce stress levels:
Stress plays a major role in elevating your blood pressure levels. Unfortunately, you will have to remove yourself from the things that are causing you extreme stress – possibly a job, certain company, or daily events. In the long run, you’ll be saving yourself from experiening another heart attack.
- Lower your cholesterol:
High cholesterol damages your arteries, increasing your risk for a heart attack or stroke. The most natural ways to lower your cholesterol is toeat a healthy diet and exercise, however, you need to consult with your doctor first. S/He may want to prescribe certain medications to help with the problem.
- Possibly change your medication:
After experiencing a heart attack, you may be in the hospital for three days to a week, recovering. During this time, your doctor will evaluate your current medication, and either reduce or add a few prescriptions – depending on the situation.
- Talk about it to someone:
As with any type of trauma, you may experience negative feelings for up to six months after the event. It’s a good idea to speak to someone you trust, such as a family member, a support group or mental health specialist, as you need someone to help you work through feelings that are holding you back from living your life once again.
- Participate in cardiac rehab:
Certain hospitals may have an outpatient programme dedicated to heart health. During this programme, you will learn certain valuable skills; such as implementing positive life changes, education on how to strengthen your heart, exercise tips, anxiety coping skills, as well as tips on how to prevent another heart attack.
- Put down the tobacco:
Many individuals have tried to quit smoking, to no prevail. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try again. It’s one of the best things you can do for your heart and overall health. The key is sticking to it for 90 days, which is the average amount of time it takes to break a habit.
- Get active on a regular basis:
Getting active and participating in some sort of exercise is important to keep your heart strong. However, consult with your doctor first to confirm the level of activity which is suitable for you at this time. Take it slow at first, there’s no need to rush.
- Take time to smell the roses:
Ultimately, what it comes down to, is learning to take things slow. Take time for yourself, your family, and those memorable moments in life. Perhaps it was a wake-up call to live life better, and enjoy every aspect of it – without worrying so much about the insignificant things.
Remember, you’ve received a second chance at life, and there’s so much you can do with it! It would be a shame to waste it. Living a healthy lifestyle takes time, support and dedication – along with ensuring you have a reliable medical aid with emergency care to help in moments like these.
Source: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/what-to-do-after-a-heart-attack?page=4