February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease and encouraging individuals to take steps toward better heart health. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in Wisconsin, with 11,860 people dying of heart disease in 2017. However, the good news is that most serious outcomes, such as strokes and heart attacks, are preventable with proper knowledge, lifestyle changes, and medical care.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and risk factors of heart disease is the first step in taking control of your heart health. Programs like cardiac rehabilitation provide essential support for recovery and long-term well-being after heart-related medical events.
We are dedicated to helping patients regain their strength and confidence through comprehensive medical rehabilitation services. Read on to learn more about heart disease, how to recognize the signs, and the steps you can take to protect your heart.
What Is Heart Disease?
Heart disease includes different heart conditions, with the most common being coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD affects blood flow to the heart and can lead to a heart attack. Many people don’t realize they have heart disease until they experience one of these symptoms of heart disease:
Heart attack: Chest pain or pressure, neck or back pain, heartburn, nausea, extreme fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
Arrhythmia: A fluttering or racing feeling in the chest (palpitations).
Heart failure: Shortness of breath, swelling in the feet, legs, or abdomen, and tiredness with little activity.
What Are the Risk Factors for Heart Disease?
Heart disease is often preventable. Key risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Nearly half of adults have at least one of these risk factors. Other risks include diabetes, being overweight, inactivity, and heavy alcohol use.
What Is Cardiac Rehabilitation?
Cardiac rehabilitation is a supervised program to help people recover from a heart attack, heart failure, or heart surgery. It focuses on:
Physical activity to regain strength.
Education on healthy habits, like eating well, taking medication as prescribed, and quitting smoking.
Stress management and mental health support.
Our team of professionals—including doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists, and counselors—work together to guide our patients through recovery. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of your recovery is addressed, from improving physical health to building emotional resilience. With personalized care and support, cardiac rehabilitation helps patients regain confidence and improve their overall quality of life.
Achieve Your Recovery Goals with Our Expert Team
We provide comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation services for cardiac, stroke, and other medical conditions to support your recovery journey. Our dedicated team and state-of-the-art facilities are here to help you regain strength, confidence, and independence. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized programs and take the first step toward achieving your recovery goals.
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