PULSE Winter 2024 7 Here’s what you should know to help your heart As February unfolds, so does a significant focus on cardiovascular health with the observance of American Heart Month. This annual campaign serves as a crucial reminder for individuals to prioritize their heart health and adopt lifestyle choices that promote overall well-being. One pivotal aspect of cardiac health that often deserves more attention is cardiac rehabilitation, a comprehensive program designed to support individuals recovering from heart-related issues. In this article, we delve into seven essential aspects of cardiac rehabilitation, shedding light on its importance, benefits and the crucial role it plays in empowering individuals to regain control of their cardiovascular health. TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEART Central Peninsula Hospital offers a comprehensive cardiac health and rehabilitation program that helps return cardiac patients to the best condition possible, safely and effectively. For more information, please call 907-714-4728 or visit our website at www.cpgh.org/services. February is American Heart Month 7 things to know about cardiac rehab 1 It’s an outpatient program. Cardiac rehab is a medically supervised program for people with heart problems. A typical program lasts about 12 weeks and is run by a team of doctors, nurses and other experts. During the classes, participants exercise to get stronger and receive heart-healthy education, counseling and support. 2 Rehab could help keep you active and out of the hospital. It can help you resume favorite activities—like golfing or fishing—after a heart attack. And it may reduce your need for chest pain medicines, as well as cut your risk for future heart attacks, hospital stays and even early death. 3 Many people qualify. You may be a candidate if, for instance, you have or have had a heart attack, heart failure, coronary artery bypass surgery, heartvalve surgery, angioplasty, angina or coronary heart disease. 4 The exercise classes are safe. In rehab, the exercise is tailored to your needs and monitored for your safety. For instance, you might exercise on a treadmill or a rowing machine to help improve your fitness level. 5 You’ll learn to care for your ticker. Rehab participants learn healthy changes, such as eating right, quitting smoking and reducing stress. 6 You can ask for it. To find out if cardiac rehab is right for you, ask your doctor. 7 It’s often covered by insurance. Medicare and many private insurance plans cover cardiac rehab.
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