Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Heart Disease Patients

Assistant Professor Dr. Sittha Pongpibool,

An expert in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation

Importance of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

     Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is a meticulously designed program aimed at accelerating recovery for individuals with heart conditions or those at risk. It helps them regain normal function and resume daily activities.

Who Benefits from Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation?

• Patients with ischemic heart disease or those who have undergone cardiac catheterization (e.g., balloon angioplasty and stenting).
• Individuals who have had heart surgery, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
• Patients with an implanted cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).
• Those with a cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D).

Benefits of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation:

• Accelerates physical recovery.
• Improves blood pressure control.
• Helps reduce stress and depression.
• Enhances overall physical health and quality of life.

Components of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation typically comprises two main components:

1.  Exercise-Based Rehabilitation

     This teaches participants safe and effective exercise techniques. Regular exercise strengthens the body, boosts energy levels, improves muscle strength, enhances mental well-being, and reduces disease complications. Exercise programs are tailored to individual capabilities, needs, and interests.

2.  Education and Disease Management

     This component educates patients on their heart condition, helping them understand how to prevent recurrence. It also provides guidance on improving overall health and reducing risk factors for heart disease.

The program's duration varies per individual, depending on their specific physical capabilities, as "each person is unique."

Is Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Safe?

     Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is safe. International research indicates a very low incidence of complications or harm from these programs. Crucially, the specialists leading cardiopulmonary rehabilitation are experienced in managing emergencies and are equipped with the necessary tools.

How to Access Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

     The Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Department is located on the 10th floor of Building 3 at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For inquiries, please call 02-743-9999, ext. 3040.

Last updated:

December 14, 2020