Your Guide To Heart Attack Recovery

A heart attack can change a patient’s life. For many, the recovery period serves as a time to focus on cardiovascular health and long-term wellness.

To discuss the journey of recovery and prevention, we spoke with Emily Smeltzer, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon with Dignity Health Medical Group – Inland Empire. Dr. Smeltzer outlines the clinical steps for patients following a cardiac event.

Take Your Medications

Following a heart attack, adhering to a prescribed medication regimen is a key component of recovery.

“Taking your medicines as directed is necessary,” Dr. Smeltzer says. “It provides a layer of protection that lowers your risk of another event or complications from coronary artery disease.”

Commonly prescribed medications include:

• Antiplatelets (like aspirin): These help prevent blood clots from forming.

• Statins: These medications work to lower cholesterol levels, reducing plaque buildup in your arteries.

• Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors/ARBs: These medications help manage blood pressure and heart rate.

If you use hormone therapy for menopause, consult your doctor. Some hormone therapies may increase the risk of a heart attack, and your care team can help you weigh the risks and benefits.

Participate in a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program

Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program designed to improve cardiovascular health.

“Cardiac rehabilitation is a program tailored to your individual needs, supported by a team specializing in exercise, education for healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress,” Dr. Smeltzer says. “It provides the tools to help prevent a future heart attack.”

Cultivate a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Dr. Smeltzer notes that long-term success comes from embracing sustainable lifestyle changes. "These aren't just recommendations; they are interventions that can lower your risk, improve your quality of life, and help you live longer and feel better," she says.

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke: Quitting reduces the likelihood of another heart attack.

• Embrace movement: Consult your doctor to determine your safe activity limits. Gradually increase physical activity, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, such as walking, on most days. This supports weight management, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• Prioritize a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables and high-fiber grains. Minimize sodium, saturated fats and trans fats.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts strain on the heart and increases the risk of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.

• Manage other health conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors. If you have concerns about alcohol or drug use, including prescription medications, consult your doctor.

• Guard against infections: Annual flu shots, the pneumococcal vaccine and staying up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines are important for long-term heart health.

• Address depression: Depression is a medical condition that warrants treatment.

Manage Angina

Some patients experience stable angina, a type of chest pain, after a heart attack.

• Pay attention to your symptoms: Learn what triggers your angina and what your typical pattern feels like.

• Know how to manage angina: For most, medications and activity adjustments can help control symptoms.

• Know when to seek help: If your stable angina worsens or changes, call your doctor. If your angina symptoms occur at rest or do not resolve with your nitroglycerin medication, seek immediate medical attention, as this could indicate another heart attack.

Consider Holistic Health

Dr. Smeltzer notes that broader aspects of well-being are linked to heart health.

• Manage stress: Chronic stress can impact heart health and exacerbate symptoms.

• Address sleep problems: Sleep apnea is common in heart disease patients. Seeking treatment for sleep issues is important for cardiovascular health.

• Find emotional support: Support from friends and family can be an important part of the recovery process.

"By diligently following medical advice, embracing healthy habits and nurturing emotional well-being, patients can not only recover but embark on a fulfilling life with a stronger, healthier heart," Dr. Smeltzer says.

Your Next Step

To create a care plan after a heart attack, connect with a local Dignity Health clinician.