Recently, a Japanese man collapsed on a train platform. Luckily he ended up in intensive care, but insisted on going back to work that day! Dr. Kunal Sood, MD, recently posted a video explaining that heart attacks can be deadly, but if you’ve had one, recovery and rest are equally important to prevent a repeat episode…Dr. Kunal Sood advises that the path to recovery after a heart attack should be based on measures aimed at restoring health and improving the overall quality of life. It combines recommendations with daily lifestyle adjustments, emphasizing the need for early detection of warning signs and the cultivation of favorable habits. Let’s see…
Tune in for the warning signs…Dr. Sood emphasizes that even the faintest cardiac alarm should not be dismissed—even tiny changes can make a big difference. He notes that new chest pains, palpitations accompanied by fainting, or shortness of breath, swelling in the legs all require medical attention. Ignoring these signals can delay treatment and worsen the prognosis. If you feel anything, call your doctor immediately.
Follow your medication scheduleMedicines prescribed by the doctor are designed to prevent the formation of blood clots, maintain blood pressure and heart rhythm. Dr. Court encourages everyone to stay on top of their medications and never miss a dose or stop taking a medication without first consulting a doctor.Eat foods that keep your heart healthyChoose foods that give your heart colorful fruits, crunchy vegetables, whole grains, lean sources of protein and healthy fats. Dr. Sud advises avoiding processed foods, excessive salt, sugary treats, and saturated fats. Likewise, smoking and heavy alcohol consumption should be avoided, given their tendency to damage blood vessels and raise blood pressure. Eating a Mediterranean diet can protect the heart and improve blood flow.ExerciseBody movement gives the heart a chance to recover while supporting weight. Dr. Sood recommends moderate options such as walking, jogging, or 20 to 30 minutes on an exercise bike each day. It is wise to consult your doctor before starting and stop the procedure if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness. Over time, stable activity reduces the load on the heart and gradually builds strength.
Sleep well and don’t restRest plays a key role in the healing process. Dr. Sud advises that good sleep and a consistent sleep schedule are non-negotiable. Participating in calming activities—meditation, deep breathing techniques, or spending time with loved ones—can promote emotional health and prevent relapse.Quit smokingTobacco eats away at arteries and increases the risk of heart disease. Dr. Sood says that quitting smoking is one of the best steps you can take to protect your heart. You should stop using even the smallest amount of tobacco, including chewing tobacco, because it makes recovery more difficult and increases the risk.Weight and blood pressure maintenanceWeight bearing puts stress on the heart and can delay recovery. Dr. Sud suggests maintaining an ideal weight, watching your salt intake, and getting your blood pressure checked regularly. As this excess fat falls, the likelihood of a subsequent heart attack decreases.Get a support systemRecovering from a heart attack seems less difficult when friends, family, or a support group are there to help. Dr. Sud advises to lean on others, ask for help and share worries. Such emotional support can reduce stress and maintain motivation, which is essential for long-term heart health.Follow-up health check-upsFollowing a heart attack is very important to keep a doctor’s appointment schedule. Dr. Sood emphasizes the importance of blood tests and heart scans to catch any problem early. During recovery, doctors often rely on imaging, lab tests, and a number of tools to guide treatment and avoid complications.Red flags that require urgent attentionSharp, distressing pressure in chest, radiating toward jaw, arm, or neck.Obvious swelling in the legs or sudden shortness of breath.Rapid heartbeat can be accompanied by dizziness or even sudden loss of consciousness.Mental fog for daysDr. Sood says you should never ignore these warning signs, especially if they occur after a heart attack.
