Preventing a Second Heart Attack

Thursday, July 03, 2003

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Most people survive their first heart attack. But having a heart attack increases your risk of another heart attack or other heart problems.

Taking medication, improving your lifestyle and addressing psychological problems may help prevent a second heart attack, according to the July issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter.

Take your medicine. Talk to your doctor about medication options that could include aspirin or another blood thinner as well as medications that dilate arteries, lower your heart rate or help manage cholesterol.

Change some habits. If you smoke, stop. And start exercising. Regular exercise promotes the development of small, new blood vessels in your heart muscle, increasing blood flow. Exercise also helps control weight, diabetes, cholesterol and hypertension.

Improve your diet. Doctors recommend lots of fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes and cutting back on saturated fats.

Address mental-health concerns, too. It's estimated that one-fourth of heart-attack survivors become depressed at some point. Depression significantly increases the risk of another heart attack and can affect your ability to stick with your rehabilitation program. Talk with your doctor about treatment options. Consider group-therapy sessions. Studies have shown that people who are socially isolated are more likely to have a second heart attack.

Carol Lammers
507-284-5037 (days)
507-284-2511(evenings)
email: newsbureau@mayo.edu

Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville
Erik Kaldor
904-953-2299

Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale
Anne Tewksbury
480-301-4368

Mayo Clinic Health Letter is an eight-page monthly newsletter of reliable, accurate and practical information on today's health and medical news. To subscribe, please call toll-free 800-333-9037, extension 9PR1.

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