How can I access cardiac rehab?
You may be able to access cardiac rehab in different ways such as coming to classes in person or doing rehab activities at home. This may include using:
- video calls
- websites
- mobile apps
- telephone support
Is it important that I have cardiac rehab?
Yes. Cardiac rehab is a vital part of your recovery. Think of it as being as important as taking your medicines. No matter what your age, gender, ethnicity, or level of fitness is cardiac rehab can help you.
What takes place during the course?
We will invite you to attend a session where we will talk with you about your recovery and rehab needs including going back to work.
This may include education on:
- relaxation and stress
- diet and lifestyle including stopping smoking
- exercise sessions
What should I get from doing my cardiac rehab course
It is our aim that by the time you have finished your cardiac rehab course you should:
- feel confident to lead as full a life as you can.
- understand your condition fully
- know how to exercise safely
- be aware of how to make changes to your lifestyle
What should I get from doing my cardiac rehab course
It is our aim that by the time you have finished your cardiac rehab course you should:
- feel confident to lead as full a life as you can.
- understand your condition fully
- know how to exercise safely
- be aware of how to make changes to your lifestyle
Who can have cardiac rehab?
You may be able to have cardiac rehab if you have
- a heart attack
- an operation on your heart (cardiac surgery)
- heart failure
- stents fitted (coronary revascularization)
- a cardiac device fitted
We have four cardiac rehab teams across University Hospitals Sussex. Please contact your local team to see if you can have rehab.
How can cardiac rehab help me?
Cardiac rehab can:
- help you to manage your heart condition in the long term after you have finished your rehab course.
- help you (and your family or carers) to understand how a cardiac event or operation might affect your physical and emotional health.
- help you make changes to your lifestyle that can improve your health and keep your heart healthy.
- give you a chance to talk to heart specialists and meet other people who have had a heart condition. This means you can share experiences and learn from each other.
How will I be referred (sent) to the cardiac rehab team?
Someone from the rehabilitation team will usually come and see you while you are in hospital. They tell you about the rehab that you may be able to have after you have left hospital (are discharged from hospital).
You may also be referred by:
- other hospitals
- GPs
- Heart Failure Specialist Nurses
Can I do a cardiac rehab course if I have a disability?
We aim to provide cardiac rehab courses to everyone who needs them. This includes people who are unable to attend standard gym sessions.
It does depend on us having the right staff and facilities available to meet your needs. Please contact the team to talk with us about your needs.