8 Mistakes heart patients make

If you've already been through one heart attack, you're at increased risk for another, but with a few smart moves you can reduce that risk. Unfortunately, many heart patients have mistaken ideas about what's good for them.

Mistake 1: Thinking all heart attacks are the same. If your Aunt Mary had a heart attack even after a lifetime of eating low-fat foods and jogging every day, you may think changing your own lifestyle is not worth the trouble. Or, your friend the construction worker may have given up his job after a heart attack, so you assume you'll need to give up your desk job, too. Don't count on it. Work with your doctor to learn what's best for you personally.

Mistake 2: Not adopting a healthier lifestyle. Learning to eat better may seem like the challenge of a lifetime--not to mention giving up cigarettes or making time for regular exercise. Yet, these are some of the best things you can do for a happier, healthier future. Important steps that can help you prevent a second heart attack include: Quit smoking.

Exercise regularly, according to your health care provider's advice. Eat a healthy, balanced diet low in fat and calories. Control your weight. Manage your blood pressure. Control your cholesterol levels. Control diabetes or any other blood sugar abnormalities.

Mistake 3: Staying stuck in grief or depression. You may have lost your healthy self-image or the ability to do important things in your life. Any major life change will bring feelings of loss and may require a grieving process. You and your family may need to work through a variety of emotions after your heart attack. Keep in mind that doing so leads to a positive, constructive future. If you feel stuck in one of these stages, don't hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional.

Mistake 4: Giving up on heart medications. Don't stop taking your medications without talking to your health care provider. Work with your provider to determine what your choices are and what these medications can do for you in terms of risk versus benefit. Ask for help in choosing the ones that: Work the best for you Have the fewest side effects Are affordable You'll be comfortable taking

Mistake 5: Tiptoeing around your family. Think about it: If you quit smoking and everyone else in the family quits as a result, you'll be helping everyone. Don't be afraid to make a big deal about your attempts at a healthy lifestyle; ask your loved ones to give you as much support as possible.

Mistake 6: Staking your life on yesterday's truths. In many cases, the treatments doctors relied on just a few years ago already are considered outmoded. There have been dramatic changes in medications and procedures, so stay up-to-date with regular visits to your health care team.

Mistake 7: Shunning exercise. Maybe you're worried it will overstress your heart, but regular exercise actually may be one of the best things you can do for your heart. It's crucial for someone who's already had a heart attack to exercise properly under the advice of a doctor. Get an exercise prescription designed just for you, based on your physical condition and your needs and interests. Exercise can help people control risks related to weight, cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar. One excellent way to get started is to participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program.

Mistake 8: Not "bothering" your doctor with questions. Your health care provider is your greatest ally and wants to partner in your care. Don't hesitate to call if you have questions or concerns.