With advancement in science and technology, most people suffering a heart attack return to their normal lives to enjoy many more years of productive life. But this also means changing the way we have been living for so long, making major lifestyle changes to prevent a secondary event. 

It is important to be aware of what you should or should not do after recovering from a heart attack. 

Dos

• Making lifestyle changes- first and foremost is to quit smoking, it is the most important positive step towards your heart health. Eating a balanced healthy diet and maintaining good control of your blood pressure and blood sugar will help lower your cardiovascular risk
• Understand your medications (names, when to take them, side effects, emergency meds) and plan your doctor appointments in advance.
• Plan your Cardiac Rehab, plan a physical therapy for you, keep your appointments. If you’re going beyond that with more exercise, walking is a great activity that most patients can enjoy while they’re rehabbing and beyond
• Join a support group
  

Don’ts 

• Don’t skip taking your medication, make sure to take your medications on time and as advised by your specialist. If you need to, write down everything you’re taking to keep yourself organized, or put reminders in your smartphone.
• Don’t ignore your emotional health- it is so important and yet so ignored. Do not dismiss your emotional well-being or that of your family. Heart-attack patients often feel depressed, afraid, and perhaps even angry at their bodies for letting them down. Dealing with these feelings is important for your recovery.