Cardiovascular Fitness

Fitting Fitness into Your Recovery

The Rehabilitation Services Department at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center offers a Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation class several times a week for patients. The class is led by trained cardiac rehabilitation nurses and is customized for each person attending.

Cardiologist Jorge Ramirez, MD, explains that, "Cardiac rehabilitation is a program of monitored, progressive, individualized exercise that is an important component of recovering from a heart attack or heart disease."

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is for patients recovering from:

• Angioplasty
• Arrhythmia
• Bypass surgery
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Stable angina

The benefits of this type of rehabilitation may help you avoid returning to the hospital.

Lower Mortality Rate

Studies show a those who complete cardiac rehabilitation often have a lower death rate from heart disease.

Relieves Stress and Depression

Being part of the group class is very helpful. After a major heart event, patients often experience psychological stress and depression. Group support and camaraderie helps people work through their heart recovery.

Healthy Changes

Diet and lifestyle plays an influential role in heart health. The cardiac rehab team helps to reinforce and encourage healthy habits.

Other benefits of cardiac rehab include:

• Ability to recognize heart disease signs and symptoms
• Assistance in preparing for your return to work and everyday life
• Increased physical ability for work and recreation
• Increased understanding of heart medications
• Improved ability to cope with heart disease
• Introduction to a safe, effective and appropriate exercise program that is personalized for your health, age and physical ability
• Positive lifestyle changes to improve your quality of life
• Reduced risk of heart attack

Learn more about cardiopulmonary rehabilitation or to sign up for a class, call 410-553-2932.