Sitting & Readmission Risk: What You Need to Know

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NEW YORK, February 29, 2024 – If you’ve recently been discharged from the hospital after a cardiac event, that cozy spot on the couch might be more risky than you think. A new study reveals that excessive sedentary time following a suspected acute coronary syndrome is linked to a significantly increased risk of emergency department or hospital readmission within a year.

The Link Between Rest and Readmission

New data shows a clear connection between prolonged sitting and a higher chance of returning to the hospital after a heart-related issue.

• Patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome who spend a lot of time sedentary face a higher risk of readmission.
• The risk of readmission increases within one year after hospital discharge.
• This research highlights the importance of physical activity in recovery after a cardiac event.

The findings underscore the critical importance of maintaining physical activity even-and especially-during recovery from a heart issue. It’s a counterintuitive message, isn’t it? We frequently enough associate rest with healing, but this research suggests that too much of a good thing can actually set you back.

Why Does Sitting Increase Risk?

While the study doesn’t definitively prove *why* sedentary behavior increases readmission rates,experts suspect several factors are at play. Prolonged sitting can negatively impact blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity – all key components of cardiovascular health. It can also contribute to muscle weakness and decreased overall fitness, making it harder to resume normal activities and potentially increasing the risk of falls or other complications.

How much is too much? The study didn’t define a specific threshold for “excessive” sedentary time, but it clearly demonstrated a correlation between increased sitting and higher readmission rates.

What Does This Mean for Patients?

This isn’t a call to run a marathon the day after discharge. It’s a nudge to incorporate more movement into your daily routine. start small – a short walk around the house, gentle stretching, or even just standing up and moving around every 30 minutes. Talk to your doctor or a cardiac rehabilitation specialist about developing a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to your individual needs and abilities.

What is the primary risk associated with excessive sedentary behavior after a suspected acute coronary syndrome? Increased risk of emergency department or hospital readmission within a year after discharge is directly linked to spending a lot of time sedentary.

The message is clear: recovery from a heart event isn’t just about medication and rest; it’s about actively engaging in a heart-healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity. Don’t underestimate the power of simply getting up and moving.