Heart disease occurs as a result of blockage of the heart arteries which causes overwork of the heart to meet up its function of distributing blood.
Heart disease is not an obvious disability.
For the cardiac patient, rehabilitation means evaluating how much and what kind of act the patient's heart will allow him to do and helping him to live as fully and contentedly as possible within these limitations.
Exactly what type of activity and how much activity is permitted must be specified in relation to job, recreation and home life.
The patient's intelligence and emotional balance in relation to the stability of his home life and his job play a large part in determining the success of rehabilitation.
Modern technology has much to contribute too.
Air-conditioning at home or at work lessens strain in warm weather.
The heart works harder and less efficiently when temperature and humidity are high - a point which is very important to consider when the patient has heart disease.
People suffering from heart disease who smoke should be advised to stop or at least to decrease their intensity of smoking.
This is because many studies have indicated that smoking is associated with increased pulse rate and some deviations of blood pressure.
Avoiding or correcting obesity is important, since overweight can increase strain on an already damaged heart.
Diets that limit calories often are prescribed.
Restrictions in sodium and cholesterol are frequently necessary.
Heart disease patients should be advised to do lighter jobs at home or at offices.
Patients are especially advised to avoid lifting of heavy weight which has heavy tax on the heart.