How To Fasten Your Recovery From A Heart Hospitalization

Steps To Recover From A Heart Hospitalization

Key highlights or summary

  • A patient is hospitalized for an average of 7 to 18 days for any heart condition.
  • Anxiety and depression are common after a heart attack.
  • While in recovery, note any occurrences of angina and speak to your doctor about it.
  • Heart patients benefit from a cardiac rehabilitation program.
  • Keep up a healthy diet to prevent further cardiac issues.

Meet our expert

Meet our expert

Rate our article

We'd love to know!

  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0

How was the experience with article?

We'd love to know!

  1. Heart Attack Recovery and Rehabilitation
  2. Russo CA, et al. Hospital stays for circulatory diseases, 2004. InHealthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Statistical Briefs [Internet] 2007 Feb. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US).
  3. Krishnamurthi N, et al. Leading causes of cardiovascular hospitalization in 8.45 million US veterans. PLoS One. 2018 Mar 22;13(3):e0193996.
  4. Dev S, et al. Implementation of Early Follow-up Care After Heart Failure Hospitalization. American Journal of Managed Care. 2021 Feb 1;27(2).
  5. Yu E, et al. cardiovascular disease prevention by diet modification: JACC health promotion series. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2018 Aug 21;72(8):914-26.
  6. Ma Y, et al. What are patients actually eating: the dietary practices of cardiovascular disease patients. Current opinion in cardiology. 2010 Sep 1;25(5):518-21.
  7. Murphy B, et al. Anxiety and depression after a cardiac event: prevalence and predictors. Frontiers in psychology. 2020 Jan 29;10:3010.
  8. Smith PJ, et al. Physical activity and psychosocial function following cardiac rehabilitation: One-year follow-up of the ENHANCED study. General hospital psychiatry. 2017 Nov 1;49:32-6.
  9. Cameron AA, et al. Recurrence of angina after coronary artery bypass surgery: predictors and prognosis (CASS Registry). Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 1995 Oct 1;26(4):895-9.
  10. Kovoor P, et al. Return to full normal activities including work at two weeks after acute myocardial infarction. The American journal of cardiology. 2006 Apr 1;97(7):952-8.

Frequently asked questions

Get the information you need.

It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions, take prescribed medications, and schedule follow-up appointments. Gradually resume physical activity as advised and adopt a heart-healthy diet.

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and seeking support from a counselor or support group can also help.

Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit salt, sugar, and saturated fats. Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption are also important.

Regular physical activity is vital for strengthening the heart and improving overall cardiovascular health. Start with light exercises like walking and gradually increase intensity as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Be alert for symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, swelling in the legs, or sudden weight gain. If you experience any of these, seek medical attention immediately.