What is Cardiac Rehabilitation ? Cardiac rehabilitation (cardiac rehab) is a professionally supervised program to help people recover from heart attacks, heart surgery and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures such as stenting and angioplasty. Cardiac rehab programs usually provide education and counseling services to help heart patients increase physical fitness, reduce cardiac symptoms, improve health and reduce the risk of future heart problems, including heart attack. Who needs Cardiac Rehab Program ? Many people of all ages who have heart conditions can benefit from a cardiac rehab program. You may benefit if you have or have had a:
Heart attack
Heart condition, such as coronary artery disease (CAD), angina or heart failure
Heart procedure or surgery, including coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), including coronary angioplasty (balloon angioplasty) and stenting, valve replacement, or a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
What are services offered in the Cardiac Rehab Program ? Programs include:
A medical evaluation to figure out your needs and limitations. The medical staff uses this information to tailor a rehabilitation program for you and help you set goals. A physical activity program tailored to your needs. Training often starts in a group setting where your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored during physical activity. You may work with a physical therapist, exercise physiologist or other healthcare professional. You learn how to check your heart rate and your level (intensity) of activity. Later, you work up to more intense aerobic activity on a treadmill or exercise bike. Counseling and education to help you understand your condition and how to manage it. You are contantly monitored with a Nutritionist to create a healthy eating plan + keep situation in control or rather improve it to prevent further complications or recurring attacks. If you smoke, you may get counseling on how to stop. Counseling may also help you cope with depression, anger and stress during your recovery. Support and training to help you return to work or your normal activities and to help you learn to manage your heart condition. How long should patient attend a Cardiac Rehab Program? Your rehabilitation plan is designed to meet your needs. You may need six weeks, six months or longer to learn how to manage your condition and develop healthier habits. Many programs last only three months, but some continue for years. Important considerations while chosing a Cardiac Rehab Program? Time: Is the program offered at a time you can be there? Place: Is the program easy to get to? Services: Does the program offer the services you need? Setting: Is it a group or individual program? Is it in a facility or will you do most of your physical activity at home? Cost: Can you afford it?
