Recovery after a heart attack will start slowly. For the first few days you will need bed rest but gradually you will become more active, based on advice from your doctor. Structured cardiac rehabilitation programmes start in hospital. Cardiac rehabilitation is a programme to help people manage their heart condition and improve their health.

Cardiac rehabilitation has two parts:

• Exercise training – Teaches you how to exercise safely, strengthen muscles, and improve stamina.
• Education – This part of the programme develops understanding about heart conditions and ways to reduce the risk of future heart problems.

It can also help to meet other people who have had similar experiences. Both Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke and the Cardiac Support Network have a number of support groups across Northern Ireland, more details of which can be found by clicking here.