How to Care for Yourself After a Heart Attack

To shed light on the journey of recovery and prevention, we spoke with Dr. Emily Smeltzer, Cardiothoracic Surgeon with Dignity Health Medical Group – Inland Empire. With empathy and expert insight, Dr. Smeltzer offers a roadmap for patients to not just survive but truly thrive after a cardiac event.

Take Your Medications

Leaving the hospital after a heart attack is a significant milestone, but it's just the start of your journey. Dr. Smeltzer emphasizes the important role of prescribed medications. "Taking your medicines as directed is non-negotiable," she shares. "It provides a layer of protection that significantly lowers your risk of another event or complications from coronary artery disease."

Some of the medicines your doctor may prescribe include:

• Antiplatelets (like Aspirin): These are essential for preventing dangerous blood clots from forming.
• Statins: If cholesterol is a concern, these medications work to lower those levels, reducing plaque buildup in your arteries.
• Beta-blockers and ACE Inhibitors/ARBs: Think of these as helping to ease the workload on your heart by managing blood pressure and heart rate.

Dr. Smeltzer also shares that "if you're on hormone therapy for menopause, it's vital to discuss this with your doctor. For some individuals, it might elevate the risk of a heart attack, and your care team can help you weigh the benefits against this potential risk."

Participate in a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program

Cardiac rehab is a medically supervised program designed to improve your cardiovascular health and is the cornerstone of post-heart attack care. "Cardiac rehabilitation is not just about physical recovery — it's a program tailored to your individual needs supported by a team specializing in exercise, education for healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress. It equips you with the knowledge and tools to prevent a future heart attack.” 

Cultivate a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

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

• Quit Smoking, Avoid Secondhand Smoke: This is by far one of the most impactful decisions you can make for your heart and overall well-being. Quitting dramatically reduces the likelihood of another heart attack.
• Embrace Movement: Before you dive into activity, always consult your doctor to understand safe limits. Then, gradually increase your physical activity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, like walking, on most days. It's fantastic for weight management, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
• Prioritize a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on a colorful plate. Plenty of fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber grains. Minimize sodium, saturated fats, and trans fats.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight puts extra strain on your heart and increases your risk of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, which directly contribute to heart attack risk.
• Manage Other Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are major risk factors. Actively managing them with your doctor's guidance is crucial. If you suspect issues with alcohol or drug use, including prescription medications, please talk to your doctor. We can help you find the right support.
• Guard Against Infections: Simple preventative measures like annual flu shots, the pneumococcal vaccine, and staying up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines are important for protecting your heart in the long run. 
• Address Depression: Depression is a medical condition that warrants treatment. Seeking help isn't just good for your mind, it's good for your heart and overall health.

Manage Angina

Even after a heart attack, some patients may experience stable angina, a type of chest pain. Dr. Smeltzer provides crucial guidance:

• 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 effectively control symptoms.
• Know When to Seek Help: If your stable angina worsens but still follows its usual pattern – for example, it comes on sooner, feels worse, or lasts longer – call your doctor. However, if your angina symptoms don't follow your typical pattern, such as occurring at rest or not resolving with your nitroglycerin medicine, seek immediate medical attention. That could indicate another heart attack.

Think About Your Health Holistically

Finally, Dr. Smeltzer underscores the broader aspects of well-being that are intrinsically linked to heart health.

• Manage Stress: Stress is a known culprit for heart problems and can exacerbate symptoms. Finding healthy coping mechanisms is key.
• Address Sleep Problems: Sleep apnea is surprisingly common in heart disease patients. Seeking treatment for sleep issues is important for your cardiovascular health.
• Find Emotional Support: Whether you're recovering from a heart attack or proactively making lifestyle changes, the support of friends and family is incredibly powerful and healing.

Dr. Emily Smeltzer’s comprehensive advice paints a clear picture: living well after a heart attack is an active journey, not a passive one. “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,” shares Dr. Smeltzer.

For personalized guidance or to create your care plan after a heart attack, please visit our Find a Doc page to connect with a local Dignity Health clinician.