Cardiac rehabilitation encompasses all processes aimed at enhancing the physical, psychological, and functional capacities of patients with cardiovascular diseases. The primary objectives are to increase the patient’s daily activity, alter the natural progression of the disease, and improve the individual’s quality of life. This rehabilitation is commonly administered following various conditions such as myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass surgery, coronary angioplasty, pacemaker installation, cardiac valve diseases or transplants, heart transplants, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and hypertension.
Cardiac rehabilitation is designed to improve the patient's physical, social, and psychological limitations, whether in their personal or professional life. It aims to reduce anxiety and depression, facilitate adaptation to the social environment, and address any heart-related issues resulting from cardiac disease. This program is most beneficial when tailored to the patient’s unique condition, the disease’s course, and risk factors by a specialist team.
Phases of Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation typically consists of three phases:
Phase 1 (Early Period): This phase includes the first few weeks following recovery in the hospital or post-hospital care after events such as myocardial infarction, angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass surgery. It begins with a medical examination and patient education about the rehabilitation process. Activities include bed exercises, self-care exercises, transitioning from bed to wheelchair, and walking in rooms and halls, with continuous monitoring of EKG, blood pressure, and heart rate.
Phase 2 (Intermediary Period): This phase starts 2-6 weeks after hospital discharge. The patient undergoes evaluation and is directed toward a suitable exercise program at the hospital. During discharge, patients receive medication, weight loss programs, smoking cessation guidance, dietary recommendations, and exercises to perform until phase 2 begins.
Phase 3 (Sustainment Period): This phase involves planning the dietary and exercise programs that patients will follow for the rest of their lives. The goal is to regulate blood pressure, ensure proper breathing, and reduce heart rate. The exercise and dietary regimen in this phase are lifelong commitments to maintain the patient’s health.
Goals of Cardiac Rehabilitation
- Strengthen the heart, lungs, and muscles
- Increase overall fitness
- Reduce lipid and cholesterol levels
- Promote healthy dietary habits to help patients achieve and maintain ideal body weight
- Control high blood pressure
- Manage blood sugar levels in diabetic patients
- Assist in smoking cessation
- Enable patients to return to their pre-illness lives and fully enjoy them
Ultimately, cardiac rehabilitation is a modern medical approach that supports patients in maintaining their quality of life after heart surgeries and other cardiac events.
