Rehabilitation of Cardiovascular Diseases and Healthcare

Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically organised program for people who had been through cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiac rehabilitation is an option for people with many forms of heart disease. In particular, benefit from cardiac rehabilitation of medical history includes:

·    Heart attack

·    Coronary artery disease

·    Heart failure

·    Peripheral artery disease

·    Chest pain (Angina pectoris)

·    Cardiomyopathy

·    Certain congenital heart diseases

·    Coronary artery bypass surgery

·    Angioplasty and stents

·    Heart or lung transplant

·    Heart valve repair or replacement

·    Pulmonary hypertension

Cardiac rehab has three equally important parts:

·    Exercise counselling and training

·    Education for heart-healthy living

·    Counselling to reduce stress

Four Major Phases of Cardiac Rehabilitation:

·    Acute Phase

·    Sub-acute Phase

·    Intensive Outpatient Therapy

·    Independent On-going Conditioning

Risks associated with Cardiac rehabilitation:

Cardiac rehabilitation isn't appropriate for everyone who suffered heart disease. Patient’s healthcare team will evaluate their health, including reviewing their medical history, conducting a physical examination and performing tests, to make sure they are ready to start a cardiac rehabilitation program.

Rarely, people suffer injuries such as strained muscles or sprains, while exercising as a part of cardiac rehabilitation. Healthcare team will carefully monitor patient while exercise to lower this risk and will teach how to avoid injuries during exercise on their own. There is also a small risk of cardiovascular complications.

During cardiac rehabilitation

The first stages of most cardiac rehabilitation programs generally last about three months, but some people may be in programs for a longer period. In special situations, people may be able to do an intensive program that may last one or two weeks, several hours a day. During cardiac rehabilitation, patient will likely work with a team of healthcare professionals, which may include cardiologists, nurse educators, nutrition specialists, exercise specialists, mental health specialists, and physical and occupational therapists.

Cardiac rehabilitation includes:

·    Medical evaluation

·    Physical activity

·    Lifestyle education

·    Support

After cardiac rehabilitation:

Cardiac rehabilitation is a long-term maintenance program, and generally need to continue the habits and follow the skills adopted in the program for the rest of your life. After about three months, patient likely will have developed their own exercise routine.

Education about nutrition, lifestyle and healthy weight may continue, as well as counselling. To get the most benefits from cardiac rehabilitation, exercise and lifestyle practices should become lifelong habits.