Cardiac Rehabilitation
Q. When can I start cardiac rehabilitation?
A. If you have had a cardiac stent inserted you can start your rehabilitation one week after the stent was put in, as long as you have not had a heart attack.
If you have had a heart attack you can start your rehabilitation after 4 weeks.
If you have had open heart surgery you can start the rehabilitation course after 8 weeks.
These timings are based on allowing your heart to rest and recuperate before beginning exercise.
Q. Is there anything I should bring with me to the rehabilitation classes?
A. Yes. Please bring a drink and a healthy snack.
You should also make sure you bring a GTN spray, if you have been given one, whether or not you have ever had to use it before.
It would be very helpful to bring along a list of all your current medications to the first session.
Q. What should I wear?
A. Please wear sensible flat shoes and comfortable clothes. Layers are preferable, as you can remove items as you warm up.
If possible ladies should wear trousers, due to movements you have to make during the classes.
Q. I feel better following my treatment, do I still need to attend the rehabilitation classes?
A. Yes. You may feel better, but the rehabilitation classes may serve as a follow-up appointment and will give you the necessary tools and information to avoid your heart disease coming back.
You may only have had a short hospital stay and not realised the significance of your heart condition. Rehabilitation covers many aspects of heart health and well-being and can help you come to terms with your heart diagnosis.
By attending the course, statistics show you can improve your chances of avoiding a return of the disease by a quarter! Heart disease is progressive and requires long term management and follow up; rehabilitation can help you with this.
Q. I have poor mobility due to joint or muscle problems, will I still benefit or be able to exercise?
A. Yes. We have a lot of patients coming who have a range of other health ailments and we can adapt the exercise programme to suit individual needs. For example, we can show you chair-based exercises. If you are worried, please speak to one of the cardiac rehabilitation team.
Q. Can I bring my partner?
A. Yes. Unfortunately, for insurance reasons they cannot take part in the exercise, but they are more than welcome to get involved with the education sessions. It is as helpful for their health and wellbeing as it is for yours, whilst also supporting you!
Q. What will I accomplish from completing cardiac rehabilitation?
A. The biggest thing people seem to gain from cardiac rehabilitation is confidence. The programme restores people’s confidence and wish to exercise and do everyday tasks following a serious diagnosis of heart problems. The rehab programme shows you that life can go on, be healthier and still enjoyable!
