Heart Health & Patient Education

A heart-healthy eating pattern generally emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts in appropriate portions, and healthier sources of protein. Limiting excess salt, added sugars, saturated fat and highly processed foods may be helpful. Individual dietary needs vary, particularly for patients with heart failure, kidney disease, diabetes or other conditions.

Sodium requirements depend on the patient's condition. Some patients, especially those with certain forms of heart failure or high blood pressure, may be advised to reduce sodium intake. Follow the specific limit recommended by your doctor or dietitian rather than applying the same restriction to every patient.

Many heart patients can and should remain physically active, but the appropriate intensity depends on the diagnosis, symptoms, medications, procedure history and fitness level. Ask your cardiologist when to start, what activities are appropriate and whether cardiac rehabilitation is suitable for you.

No. Feeling better does not necessarily mean that treatment is no longer needed. Medicines such as blood thinners, blood-pressure medicines and anti-arrhythmic drugs should be changed or stopped only after discussion with your treating doctor.

Bring your previous medical reports, ECGs, echocardiography or imaging reports when available, a current list of medicines and supplements, allergy information and details of previous cardiac procedures. Writing down your symptoms and questions can also make the consultation more useful.

It depends on the test. Some investigations require fasting while others do not. Follow the exact preparation instructions provided by your hospital or doctor, especially if you have diabetes or take regular medicines.

An ECG records the heart's electrical activity and can help evaluate rhythm and other cardiac abnormalities. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to assess heart structure and function. Your doctor chooses tests based on your symptoms, examination and medical history.

Follow your hospital's instructions regarding fasting, medicines, investigations and arrival time. Tell your medical team about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, allergies and previous reactions to anesthesia or contrast. Do not independently stop blood thinners or other important medicines unless your treating team specifically instructs you to do so.

Do not assume that you can eat or drink normally before a procedure. Fasting requirements vary according to the procedure and anesthesia plan. Follow the exact instructions given by your hospital or anesthesiology team.

Some medicines are continued and others may need to be adjusted before a procedure. This is particularly important for blood thinners, diabetes medicines and certain blood-pressure medicines. Take medicines only according to the pre-procedure instructions given by your doctor or hospital.

Ask what the procedure is intended to treat, what preparation is required, whether medicines need to be changed, expected hospital stay, common risks, recovery time, activity restrictions and when your follow-up will occur.

After surgery, focus on the diet recommended by your treating team. Generally, nutritious foods that provide adequate protein, vegetables, fruits and whole grains can support recovery. Depending on your heart condition, you may also need limits on sodium, fluids or certain foods. Your surgeon or dietitian should provide individualized guidance.

Walking is often introduced gradually during recovery, but the timing and amount depend on the type of surgery, complications, overall health and your medical team's instructions. Increase activity progressively rather than returning suddenly to strenuous exercise.

Recovery varies greatly depending on whether you had a catheter-based procedure, device implantation or major surgery. Your doctor will give you procedure-specific instructions about work, driving, exercise, wound care and follow-up.

Contact your medical team promptly for concerning or worsening symptoms such as increasing breathlessness, persistent or severe chest pain, fainting, significant palpitations, fever, unusual bleeding, worsening swelling, or problems with an incision. For severe or potentially life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Many people can consume moderate amounts of tea or coffee, but tolerance varies. Patients with certain rhythm problems, uncontrolled blood pressure or symptoms triggered by caffeine may need individualized advice. Discuss your intake with your cardiologist if you notice palpitations or other symptoms.

Travel restrictions depend on the procedure, recovery, symptoms and medical stability. Ask your doctor when it is safe to travel and whether you need medication, medical documents or special precautions during the journey.

Cardiac rehabilitation can be appropriate for many patients after certain heart attacks, surgeries and cardiac procedures. It combines supervised physical activity with education and lifestyle support. Ask your cardiologist whether you are a suitable candidate.

Contact your cardiology team when you develop new, persistent or worsening symptoms, have questions about medicines, experience unexpected side effects, or need clarification about activity, diet or follow-up instructions. Do not wait for a routine appointment if symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening.