Cardiac rehabilitation is a program aimed at minimizing the risk of complications in persons with heart problems. Usually, it requires exercises, education on subjects such as nutrition, and strategies for stress control.
This article addresses what to expect from cardiac rehab, why it is important, and how much risk is covered by insurance.
What is it?
Cardiac rehab is a medical supervision program for people who have experienced heart conditions.
The goal is to:
- improve the person’s health and quality of life
- prevent further problems
- reduce the chances of needing to return to the hospital for heart-related issues
A combination of exercise training , education, and therapy appears to include the rehab program. It takes place in the rehab center of a clinic or hospital.
Different healthcare providers, including nurses, fitness therapists, and nutritionists, are typically interested in cardiac rehab, while doctors monitor the program. Significant support can also be provided by family members and friends.
Who needs it?
A doctor can give cardiac rehabilitation to an individual of any age who has had:
- a heart attack
- heart failure
- heart valve surgery
- a coronary artery bypass
- a percutaneous coronary intervention, or stent placement
If they have an ongoing heart disorder, such as coronary artery disease with stable chest pain, a person might also attend cardiac rehab.
Is it necessary?
Cardiac rehabilitation has clear advantages, although it is not necessary.
As the American Heart Association (AHA) states, attending rehab is critical in avoiding more complications that may be fatal. Since healing from a heart problem, Rehab also helps people get back to their daily routines.
Although it can take about 3 months for the program, the benefits will last for several years.
People receive expert guidance on eating well, managing their weight, and managing their levels of stress in cardiac rehab. It is still important to follow this form of advice from a doctor if a person wishes not to attend the program.
People who live far from somewhere that provides cardiac rehabilitation can speak with their doctor about transport or homebound services.
What does it involve?
Cardiac rehab usually takes place in a clinic or hospital rehabilitation center, and a team of doctors and other healthcare professionals are involved.
The program has three parts:
- Exercise training and counseling: Physical activity can get the entire cardiovascular system working, and it is critical to maintaining a healthy heart.
- Education for healthful living: This involves managing risk factors, such as by quitting smoking and eating well.
- Counseling: The aim is to reduce stress, which can have adverse effects on heart health.
The program will last approximately 12 weeks and consists of up to 36 supervised sessions. Depending on the needs of the client, each session varies.
A nurse or another healthcare professional watches for any changes in symptoms during the program, takes electrocardiogram readings, and tests the heart rate and blood pressure of the person.
During each session
A doctor and an exercise physiologist devise a recovery program during the first session after taking into account the medical history of the individual and the findings of a physical examination and examinations, such as a fitness test or cardiac imaging scan.
They put together a structured workout plan with this knowledge. Some people begin with light activities and, over time, build up their routine.
Using a stationary bike, jogging on a track or treadmill, or using a rowing machine may be part of a workout session. The aim is to develop levels of fitness and progressively enhance heart health.
During exercise, healthcare professionals monitor the vital signs of the person, such as heart rate and blood pressure. To provide assistance, a team of nurses, physiotherapists, and exercise specialists is also available.
Most sessions often include preparation customized for each person. This could include diet advice, stress control, or healthy exercise. Some persons undergo therapy.
Family members or friends will also take part in cardiac recovery.
How to get started
To attend cardiac rehab, a person needs a referral from a physician. If one of the AHA notes has not been given by a doctor, it may be appropriate to request a referral.
A doctor will help arrange transport if a person lives far away from a cardiac rehabilitation center. It is possible to undergo cardiac rehab at home for certain individuals.
Usually , a person does not need to plan a lot for a rehab session. Usually, doctors offer advice on what to expect before recovery starts.
Cost
Usually, Medicare and most other health programs cover up to 36 cardiac rehabilitation sessions.
However, as always, check with the insurance company first. There are several exceptions, for example, including persons who have received pacemakers.
Medicare covers cardiac rehabilitation for people who have had:
- a heart attack in the last 12 months
- coronary bypass surgery
- stable angina
- heart valve repair or replacement
- coronary angioplasty
- heart or lung transplants
- chronic heart failure with reduced heart function
Are there any risks?
Cardiac rehabilitation poses few risks. Each program is designed for each person by doctors and other healthcare providers and they monitor for signs of complications continuously.
Physical exercise during rehab can, in very rare cases, cause muscle or bone injuries or, possibly, more heart problems. The supervising staff immediately stop the activity and provide treatment if this occurs.
Summary
A significant part of recovery from heart problems is cardiac rehabilitation. It can also reduce the chances of experiencing another cardiac event.
A team of healthcare professionals tailors each program to meet the needs of the client and provides each step of the way with close monitoring.
Rehab typically requires physical activity that rises progressively in intensity and education by successfully handling stress and making improvements to the diet to improve heart health. Some individuals undergo therapy, too.
