More than 60 million Americans have health problems related to heart and circulatory disorders. In the United States, cardiovascular disease causes more deaths than all other causes of death combined for both men and women.
Age, gender and family history play an important role in determining who will develop the disease, but there’s more to the story. The lifestyle choices we face every day also make a big difference. Do you tend to ignore medical advice for preventing or controlling high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol? Are you overweight? Do you smoke? Can your life be summed up by one word: S-T-R-E-S-S?
If any of these scenarios sounds familiar, and if you recently have had a heart attack, bypass surgery or angioplasty or have stable cardiovascular disease, you may be a candidate for cardiovascular rehabilitation.
Cardiovascular rehabilitation is a medically supervised program designed to reduce the risk of recurring coronary artery disease and to improve overall health. Participants learn to follow an exercise plan with weights, treadmills and other cardiovascular equipment; improve their diet; quit smoking; reduce stress; and generally take control of their health – all with the warm, expert support of our medical team, which includes advanced cardiac life support-certified nurses, exercise physiologists and nutrition educators.
Our program follows the guidelines set by:
The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
The American Heart Association
The American College of Sports Medicine
The program has important benefits:
Those who follow the guidelines after completing a cardiovascular rehab program are more likely to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle for years to come.
Patients tend to return to their daily activities more quickly and have increased confidence and a sense of wellness.
Plus: Ongoing support groups offer patients heart-healthy education and an opportunity to share feelings and experiences with other cardiac patients.
Cardiac rehabilitation is covered by most insurance. A referral by your physician is required. Under special circumstances, transportation can be arranged for you.
Hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. The Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit is located on the 7th floor of the East Tower.
For more information, please call South Miami Heart Center at South Miami Hospital, 786-662-5128.