Newly diagnosed with heart disease? Here are 8 tips

Learning you have heart disease can feel overwhelming. Get on the right track with these tips from our experts.

A heart disease diagnosis can bring up a lot of questions: What does this mean for my daily life? What changes do I need to make? How do I lower my risk of a heart attack or another heart problem?

The good news is that you do not have to figure it out all at once. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with coronary artery disease, told you are at risk for a heart attack or recently had your first heart attack, there are steps you can take now to better understand your condition and protect your health.

Start by learning what your diagnosis means, building a support system and working closely with your doctor on a care plan. These eight tips can help you feel more prepared and take an active role in your heart health.

1. Empower yourself. Start thinking and acting proactively. Learn about your condition, treatment options and the steps you can take to make your therapy a success. Take responsibility for doing all you can to positively affect your health.
2. Choose the right doctor. This is one of the most important medical decisions you’ll make. Ask friends and medical professionals for recommendations, then check the doctor’s background. Find a doctor who feels like the right partner for the long haul, serving as a guide and a champion for your success.
3. Make the most of your doctor visits. Write down a list of your concerns before your appointment, then ask your most important questions first.
4. Follow your doctor’s instructions. For example, your doctor may recommend that you quit smoking, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, control diabetes, eat a heart-healthy diet or exercise regularly. Making these lifestyle changes may reverse the progression of heart disease and reduce your chances of a heart attack or stroke.
5. Treat your new diet like an adventure. Your doctor may advise you to incorporate more heart-healthy foods and cooking techniques into your diet. Instead of treating this like a punishment, reframe these changes as an opportunity to immerse yourself in learning about healthy cooking. You have so many new recipes to explore.
6. Have an emergency plan. Ask your doctor which symptoms you should watch for and what you should do if they appear. Call 911 or your local emergency-response number if you believe you’re having a heart attack or stroke.
7. Involve your family. Heart disease affects your family, too, and having their support can help you make necessary lifestyle changes more easily. Ask family members to learn about your condition. Take them to one of your doctor appointments and let them ask questions about your treatment. You and your family can take a CPR class to prepare in case you or someone in your community has a heart emergency.
8. Join a support group. Ask your doctor, hospital community service liaison or your local affiliate of the American Heart Association to recommend a heart-patient group in your area. These groups vary in character and objectives so plan on visiting a few of them before deciding which one is right for you.

The Vanderbilt Heart team treats patients with all kinds of cardiovascular disease, including very complex cases, offering a wide range of services in many locations. Learn more here.