Heart attack is considered as one of the most widespread health issues that affects individuals in all corners of the globe. A heart attack happens once the flow of blood to the heart is obstructed by an artery that is congested. Due to the deficiency of blood to the heart, it results to injury or cause permanent destruction to the heart. Even though a case was often deadly in the past, many can continue with normal lives today with the help of medical advancements and technology that drastically change the healthcare system and procedures. If an individual sustained a heart attack, it is vital that he/she will receive proper care to prevent another one from occurring.
Providing immediate hospital care
Once the symptoms start to manifest such as chest pain, shortness of breath and sweating, it is vital to seek immediate emergency care. Upon arrival at the hospital, the doctor will assess the individual to determine the severity of the heart attack and usually provides medications such as aspirin and blood thinners. If it is a mild heart attack, the doctor will recommend a medical procedure in order to eliminate the issue.
While at the hospital, the individual will be referred to a cardiac rehabilitation center. The individual will be given advice, tips, counseling and support to help him/her deal with the previous heart attack while at the same time educating on how to prevent another one in the future.
Home care for a heart attack victim
In most cases, the care after a mild heart attack can be done at home. There are two areas such as exercise and diet where the individual should change habits in order to properly care for the body.
Right after a heart attack, it is recommended by the experts to follow a heart-healthy diet. This diet is comprised of fruits, vegetables, lean meats and low-fat grain while avoiding fats. Take note that the diet is vital in helping change some of the bad habits that the individual has adopted in the past. Other important changes include the intake of daily vitamins, reducing alcohol consumption and stop smoking. All of these are vital to help prevent another heart attack from occurring.
Exercise is another important component of home care. The individual must start off gradually and then slowly increase the level of physical activity. The recommended exercises include bicycling, walking, swimming and using an elliptical trainer. Always remember that cardiovascular exercises are vital in healing the heart and preventing a future heart attack. Once the individual returns home from the hospital, he/she must slowly take up some of his/her regular daily activities. Take note that a sense of normalcy is vital in home care right after a mild heart attack along with physical and dietary changes he/she must make.