Cardiac rehabilitation is a combination of services to help people recover from heart disease. Cardiac rehabilitation, or cardiac rehab, can help you feel better and live a longer, healthier life. You can benefit from these services if you have had one of three conditions.
* A heart attack or other form of heart disease such as angina.
* Bypass surgery or other procedure on your heart.
* A heart transplant.

Cardiac rehab programs involve four components:
* exercise,
* education,
* counseling, and
* behavior change.

The cardiac rehab team may include nurses, doctors, therapists, dietitians, and other specialists. If you are the patient, you may be in a group with others like you. The most important person is still you. You have to learn about your heart condition. You have to follow the advice of your team members. You have to feel free to ask questions. You have to report any symptoms.

A cardiac rehab program can start in the hospital. Most programs also use community facilities such as a YMCA or professional center. A program may last several weeks or several months. Sometimes these programs are paid by insurance. It is always a good idea to check this with your insurance company.

Cardiac rehab programs are safe. These programs have trained health professionals and heart monitors, if they are needed. Still, you should follow your caregiver's advice to make sure the program is right for you. Once you begin your program, make a commitment to stick with it. As you change your diet, begin regular exercise, and learn about your disease you will feel better and improve your health.

For more information, contact your American Heart Association office or call (800) 242-8721. You can also call Mended Hearts, Inc. at (214) 706-1442 for information on patient support groups.

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