My own experience with cardiac rehab several years ago was mixed; it felt safer after a heart attack to be in a hospital setting and have my heart monitored, and it was good to have a schedule to stick to. However, there was absolutely no attention paid to the psychological factors associated with heart disease or heart attack recovery. There was no referral to a therapist; there was no psychological support group available. (When I tried to start a psychological support group, it was met with severe resistance.)
Most people who go through heart attacks go through severe anxiety and depression — they are both major risk factors for increased mortality after a heart event. Compliance with medication and exercise are also psychological issues. Yet cardiac rehab programs rarely pay much attention to the inner world of heart patients.
As far as I know, even the Mayo Clinic, which I have the highest regard for and and has provided excellent service on numerous occasions, does not have a psychologist or similar professional associated with their cardiac rehab program.
I think some of the resistance is due to current medical model, which focuses on facts rather than feelings, and emphasizes drugs far more than counseling.
Many Benefits From Cardiac Rehab, Yet Many Women Don’t Participate
Medical News Today
23 Aug 2010
People who participate in cardiac rehabilitation cut their chances of dying of heart disease by nearly 30 percent in the subsequent two to five years, according to the August issue of Mayo Clinic Women’s HealthSource. Other proven results include less stress, less pain, reduced risk of future heart problems and improved ability to return to work and participate in social activities.
Yet, fewer than one-third of people who are eligible for cardiac rehab actually participate. Women, minorities and older people in particular are under-represented. Women, especially older women, are less likely to be referred for cardiac rehab and, when referred, less likely to attend.
Cardiac rehab programs are tailored to meet individual needs, but typically include medical evaluation, counseling, training and support to adopt the lifestyle changes that will help prevent future heart problems. Elements typically include:
Increasing exercise: Exercise strengthens heart muscles, so it can pump more blood with less effort. An optimal goal for most people is 45 to 60 minutes of exercise a day, with strength training two to three times a week.
Modifying risk factors: Patients develop a plan to address the risks that contribute to heart disease, including smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Nutrition: Patients work with a dietitian to learn about heart-healthy meal planning and eating, with an emphasis on plenty of fruits and vegetables and foods low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, refined sugar and salt.
Psychological health: Cardiac rehabilitation often includes treatment for mental health concerns, as well as emotional support. Depression is very common after a heart attack or other cardiac event, and women are particularly vulnerable. Patients also may experience anxiety, anger and social isolation; all can contribute to further heart problems.
Cardiac rehab is most often recommended for patients who’ve had a heart attack. It’s also helpful for those who have had coronary bypass surgery, angioplasty, stents or pacemaker placement, heart valve surgery, or a heart or lung transplant. People with heart failure, chest pain (angina), peripheral artery disease or congenital cardiovascular disease also can benefit.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I have been researching about Miami Cardiology and find out some info about minimally invasive cardiac surgery .
It says that recover after minimally invasive surgery its only 2 days.
However, would you recommend all this rehab also?
Audrey:
I would recommend cardiac rehab, or its equivalent if you have any risk factors for heart attack, or if you have been diagnosed with heart disease– if your lipids are OK, you are physically fit, your weight is ideal, your diet is right, etc, then you wouldn’t need cardiac rehab.
The real issue is doing everything you can to reduce your risk factors, whether it is through cardiac rehab or other program. Also note that rehab programs are often quote limited; the one I was involved with focused only on the physical — someone to talk with, some massage, some group support, some telephone calls would have helped. ..
thanks for the question..