Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. After you've had a heart attack, you may be worried that you could have another one. That's easy to understand. But the good news is that there are things you can do to reduce your risk of having another heart attack. Medicines can help prevent another heart attack. Some of the medicines your doctor may prescribe include: Don't stop taking your medicines unless your doctor tells you to. If you stop taking them, you can increase your risk of having another heart attack. If you have been taking hormone therapy for menopause, talk with your doctor about whether it's right for you. It might raise the risk of a heart attack in some people. Taking part in a cardiac rehabilitiation (rehab) program helps you recover from a heart attack. It also helps you take steps to prevent another one. A cardiac rehab program is designed for you and supervised by doctors and other specialists. They provide education and support to help you build new, healthy habits. Healthy lifestyle changes can help lower your risk of having another heart attack. And they may help you feel better and live longer. Here are some things you can do: This is one of the best things you can do for your heart and your overall health. This includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, fish, and high-fiber grains and breads. Eat foods low in sodium (salt), saturated fat, and trans fat. Being overweight makes you more likely to have high blood pressure, heart problems, and diabetes. These conditions make a heart attack more likely. Ask for help if you think you are depressed. Symptoms include feeling sad or hopeless all the time, or losing interest in activities that used to make you happy. Health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can increase your risk of a heart attack. If you think you may have a problem with alcohol or drug use, talk to your doctor. Get the flu vaccine every year. Get a pneumococcal vaccine shot. If you have had one before, ask your doctor whether you need another dose. Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines. Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Heart Attack: How to Prevent Another One
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Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardHeart Attack: How to Prevent Another One
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.