Stay healthy These guidelines may help keep you and your heart healthier:
• Get a flu shot each year if your doctor advises. • Get a pneumonia vaccine if your doctor advises it. • Take antibiotics before dental visits if your doctor has advised you to. Take good care of your teeth and get regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
• Discuss any non-cardiac surgery (unless an emergency) with your heart doctor (cardiologist) before you schedule it. This
is very important, even for simple outpatient procedures. Your anesthesia needs may differ with the type of CHD you have.
• Avoid over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements unless your heart doctor says they are OK. These may:
– interact badly with your prescribed heart drugs
– cause heart rhythm problems
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