Living Well with Heart Valve Disease: Essential Lifestyle Modifications

Understanding Lifestyle Modifications

Physical Activity

• Start gradually: Begin with low-impact activities
• Recommended activities:
  • Walking
  • Swimming
  • Light cycling
  • Supervised cardiac rehabilitation
• Exercise duration: 30 minutes, 5 days per week
• Important: Monitor heart rate and symptoms

Diet Modifications

• Reduce sodium intake: Less than 2,300mg daily
• Heart-healthy eating:
  • Lean proteins
  • Whole grains
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Healthy fats (omega-3)
• Limit processed foods

Weight Management

• Maintain healthy BMI (18.5-24.9)
• Regular weight monitoring
• Consult healthcare provider for weight loss goals

Stress Management

• Practice relaxation techniques
• Consider meditation or yoga
• Adequate sleep (7-8 hours)

Additional Recommendations

1. Medication adherence
   • Take medications as prescribed
   • Keep medication list updated
2. Regular monitoring
   • Blood pressure checks
   • Heart rate monitoring
   • Symptom tracking
3. Lifestyle habits
   • Quit smoking
   • Limit alcohol
   • Avoid extreme temperatures

When to Contact Your Doctor

• Increased shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Unusual fatigue
• Rapid weight gain
• Swelling in legs or ankles