Change Lifestyle After a Heart Attack
A heart attack is a wake-up call for most patients. A few significant lifestyle changes can improve your overall health. Suffering a heart attack can be scary. The thought of not living through the experience is usually enough to help motivate most heart attack sufferers into a lifestyle change.
Instructions
1. Start a routine of daily exercises to get the body moving. Ask your doctor for advice on an exercise regiment. Most doctors recommend you start with a low-impact aerobic exercise like walking every day. The best advice before or after a heart attack has occurred is to become physically active.
2. Keep a good record of your cholesterol levels by having them checked regularly. Keep your daily consumption of cholesterol under 300 mg or less if you have high LDL cholesterol levels.
3. Eat a diet rich in vitamins. Fill your meals with fruits, leafy green vegetables and whole grains. Keep the fat content to a minimum, and focus on protein rich meats and foods high in fiber.
4. Reduce stress in your life. Some studies have shown stress can add to your chances of another heart attack. Consult a professional counselor to develop a plan to address stress.
5. Talk to your partner about any sexual concerns. Speak with your doctor to make sure he feels sex after your heart attack is OK. Most doctors believe there's no need to stop having sex after a heart attack.
6. Recruit your family and friends to join in your lifestyle changes. Making changes can only benefit them as well.
7. Take all blood pressure or cholesterol lowering medications prescribed. Skipping doses can have dangerous affects, and it is important to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns with the medication.
Tips Warnings
Look for exercise programs designed for heart attack patients or for the elderly if you are a senior citizen. Ask for referrals from your doctor.
If you smoke, you'll need to quit. Smoking increases your chances of a repeat heart attack with more severe, even life-threatening consequences.
Drink alcohol in moderation only. Some doctors recommend a drink a day that may benefit some heart patients, but talk to your doctor before making any decisions on your own.
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