Heart attacks are a jolting experience. They can make anyone overwhelmed, anxious, fearful, and like their world has been turned on its head, and for good reason. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the United States. The following are ways you can begin recovering from a heart attack, and help yourself avoid one.

Take Your Medication. If you have had a heart attack, or have hypertension that puts you at an increased risk for a heart attack, be sure to take any prescribed medication as recommended by your doctor. It’s important to maintain your regimen, even if it comes with an adjustment period.

Quit Smoking. Cigarettes are a primary risk factor for heart disease. The carcinogenic ingredients in the cigarette and the smoke are awful for our health. Just one year after quitting cigarettes greatly reduces your risk of a heart attack.

Manage Stress. Chronically elevated levels of cortisol degrade your health over time in a number of ways that makes you more prone to experiencing a heart attack. Practice yoga, meditation, regular exercise, reading, or any other activities that help you take a moment for yourself away from the things that stress you out.

Eat Well. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet of high fiber, natural, and whole grain foods is paramount to retaining a healthy body weight, and keeps your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels within the normal range.

Stay Active. Going for a 30-minute walk, five times a week is an easy way to remain active if you have experienced a heart attack, or want to reduce your risk. Swimming, biking, running, and any other cardio you enjoy also work to maintain your health and reduce risk.

If you would like more information on recovery after a heart attack, contact Dr. Gordon C. Gunn MD at 714-912-2211 or visit www.gordongunnmd.com to schedule an appointment today.