WELLNESS REIGN
FAQ's
Social prescribing can help reduce isolation, promote physical activity, and improve mental well-being, all of which are vital in cardiac recovery. Engaging in community activities, support groups, or hobbies can alleviate stress and anxiety, which in turn supports heart health and overall recovery.
Heart age refers to the relative age of your heart based on risk factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, and physical activity. Heart age reversal is the process of adopting heart-healthy lifestyle changes to lower your heart’s biological age. While cardiac surgery can repair damage, following up with diet, exercise, and stress management can actively lower your heart’s age and reduce the risk of future heart disease.
Key steps include engaging in regular physical activity, following a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking, managing stress, and adhering to prescribed medications. Participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program is also essential in improving heart function and potentially reversing your heart’s biological age.
Key tips include following a heart-healthy diet, adhering to prescribed medications, participating in cardiac
rehabilitation, engaging in light physical activity, managing stress, and attending all follow-up appointments.
Milestones include leaving the hospital, reducing pain medication, starting cardiac rehabilitation, increasing
physical activity, returning to work, and resuming normal daily routines. These milestones vary by individual.
Ask about your specific recovery timeline, when to start physical activities, signs of complications to watch for,
medication management, dietary recommendations, and when to follow up for post-operative care.
It’s not uncommon to feel your heart pounding or bounding during recovery. However, if you experience
persistent or severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats, contact your healthcare provider.
Most patients can resume driving about 4-6 weeks after surgery, once they are no longer taking pain
medication and can move comfortably. Always confirm with your doctor before getting back behind the wheel.
Cardiac rehabilitation is a structured program that includes exercise, education, and counseling. It is designed
to help you recover, improve your heart health, and prevent future cardiac events.
Initially, light activities such as walking are recommended. As you progress, your cardiac rehab program will
guide you through more structured exercises tailored to your recovery stage and overall health.
You can usually take a shower 2-3 days after surgery, but avoid soaking the incision site in water. Follow your
healthcare provider’s instructions on wound care to prevent infection.
The time off work depends on the nature of your job and your recovery speed. Sedentary jobs may resume in
6-12 weeks depending on your particular rate of recovery. Always consult with your doctor.
Energy levels gradually improve over several weeks. Most patients notice a significant increase in energy by
6-12 weeks depending on your particular rate of recovery, but it can take a few months for full energy to return.
Expect a slower pace initially, with emphasis on rest, gentle exercise, and a heart-healthy diet. Gradually, you
will return to your normal activities, but it’s important to avoid overexertion.
Yes, it’s normal to experience depression or mood swings after major surgery. These feelings often improve
with time, but it’s important to seek support if they persist.
Your family may experience stress, anxiety, or even fear about your health and recovery. Open communication
and support can help everyone cope better during this time.
t’s common to feel scared or anxious during recovery. These feelings usually lessen as you regain strength
and confidence in your health. Talk to your healthcare team if your fears persist.
The psychosocial component includes the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of recovery. It’s
common to experience stress, anxiety, depression, or changes in mood. Support from healthcare providers, family, and friends, along with counseling or support groups, can significantly aid in managing these challenges.
Keep the incision site clean and dry. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on wound care and avoid
submerging the incision in water until it is fully healed. Report any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, to your healthcare provider immediately.
Traveling is generally not recommended in the early stages of recovery. Once you have fully recovered and
your doctor gives you the green light, you can start traveling. Be sure to discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider, especially if they involve long flights.
Most patients can resume sexual activity 4-6 weeks after surgery, but it’s important to feel comfortable and
confident. Consult with your doctor about when it’s safe to resume sexual activity.
Yes, changes in appetite are common after surgery. Some patients may experience a reduced appetite or
changes in taste. Focus on eating small, nutritious meals and stay hydrated. If appetite changes persist, consult your healthcare provider.
Sleep disturbances are common during recovery. Establish a regular sleep routine, avoid caffeine, and create a
comfortable sleep environment. If sleep problems persist, consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and light physical activities like
walking can help. Engaging in hobbies, talking to loved ones, or joining a support group can also be beneficial.
You should gradually return to normal eating habits as you recover, but it’s important to focus on a
heart-healthy diet. This includes eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting saturated fats, sodium, and sugars.
Mild chest discomfort is common, but if you experience severe or persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, or
other concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of a complication.
Alcohol should be avoided during your recovery, as it can interfere with medications and slow the healing
process. Discuss with your doctor when or if it’s safe to consume alcohol post-surgery.
Consider adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, quitting smoking,
managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight. These changes can help improve your recovery and prevent future cardiac issues.
Managing chronic stress is essential for improving quality of life. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and talking to a therapist can help reduce stress. It’s also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and seek support from friends, family, or a healthcare provider.
Focus on adopting small, manageable lifestyle changes such as eating a heart-healthy diet, engaging in light physical activities (e.g., walking or swimming), managing stress, and connecting with support groups. Pacing yourself and setting realistic goals can help you regain a sense of control.
Ask about lifestyle modifications, symptom management, medications, stress relief strategies, and any available treatments or palliative care options that can improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to discuss emotional challenges, as mental health is a key component of managing chronic illness.
It’s common to feel overwhelmed by a chronic diagnosis. Seek emotional support from family, friends, or a therapist. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or joining a patient support group can also help you cope with feelings of hopelessness and find ways to focus on the positives.
Focus on maintaining regular physical activity within your ability, following a structured daily routine, and asking for help when needed. Adaptive tools, community services, or home healthcare services can also support independent living while managing your condition.
A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage symptoms and improve overall health. Limiting sodium, unhealthy fats, and processed sugars is important for managing heart disease and other chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
Yes, mental health plays a significant role in physical health. Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety can exacerbate heart disease and other NCDs. Addressing mental health through therapy, counseling, or relaxation techniques can improve both emotional and physical well-being.
Reach out to support groups, either in-person or online, where others with similar experiences can offer advice and encouragement. You can also seek help from a mental health professional who specializes in chronic illness management.
Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life by managing symptoms, stress, and emotional concerns. It’s a holistic approach to care, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs for those with chronic conditions like inoperable heart disease.
Prioritize rest and recovery, engage in light exercise that matches your energy level, eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and consider meditation or yoga to help manage energy. It’s also important to pace yourself and avoid overexertion.
Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, prioritize what’s most important, and use adaptive tools if needed. Rest when necessary, and consider seeking help from family, friends, or home care services for more physically demanding tasks.
Many people with inoperable NCDs experience stress, anxiety, depression, and feelings of frustration due to the limitations the condition imposes. Psychological support through counseling, therapy, or patient groups can help manage these emotions.
Be open and honest about your condition, explaining how it affects your daily life and what kind of support you may need. You might want to share educational resources to help them better understand your diagnosis and how they can support you emotionally and physically.
Yes, inoperable heart disease can lead to complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, or increased risk of stroke. Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and medication management are crucial for reducing these risks.
Common side effects can include fatigue, dizziness, or gastrointestinal issues. Discuss these with your healthcare provider, who may adjust your dosage or switch to a different medication. Never stop taking medication without consulting your doctor.
Set small, achievable goals and celebrate each success, no matter how minor. Connecting with a support group or a counselor can also provide motivation and encouragement during difficult times.
Yes, complementary therapies like acupuncture, massage, or mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) can help alleviate stress and improve emotional well-being. Always consult your doctor before starting any alternative treatments to ensure they’re safe for your condition.
It’s normal to grieve the loss of abilities or independence. Focus on what you can still do, and find new activities that bring you joy. Psychological therapy, support groups, or counseling can help you navigate these feelings.
Non-medical interventions include social prescribing (engaging in community or social activities), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and connecting with nature. These activities can boost mood and reduce the emotional burden of chronic illness.
Planning for the future involves setting realistic health goals, arranging for long-term care if necessary, and discussing advanced care planning with your healthcare provider. You may also want to make legal and financial arrangements to ensure your wishes are met.