If you’ve already had a heart attack, you’re at increased risk for another, but with a few smart moves you can reduce that risk. Unfortunately, many heart patients have mistaken ideas about what’s good for them.
Mistake 1: Thinking all heart attacks are the same
If your uncle had a heart attack even after a lifetime of eating low-fat foods and jogging every day, you may think changing your own lifestyle is not worth the trouble. Or, your friend the construction worker may have given up his job after a heart attack, so you assume you’ll need to give up your desk job, too. Don’t count on it. Work with your doctor to learn what’s best for you personally. Everyone has different genetics and different risk factors unique to their own lifestyle. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider, friends, and family, to understand and develop a plan that is appropriate for you.
Mistake 2: Not adopting a healthier lifestyle
Learning to eat better may seem like the challenge of a lifetime–not to mention giving up cigarettes, or making time for regular exercise. Yet, these are some of the best things you can do for a happier, healthier future.
Important steps that can help you prevent a second heart attack include:
- Quit smoking.
- Exercise regularly, according to your healthcare provider’s advice.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet low in fat and calories.
- Control your weight.
- Manage your blood pressure.
- Control your cholesterol levels.
- Control diabetes or any other blood sugar abnormalities.
- Visit your healthcare provider regularly to make sure you are on track.