There is no cure for arthritis. But many people with this disease find ways to continue living an active lifestyle. One common way to combat symptoms of advanced arthritis is to undergo knee or hip replacement surgery.

According to the National Institutes of Health, knee and hip replacements are typically recommended for osteoarthritis patients who:

• Experience symptoms that prevent them from sleeping or performing everyday activities
• Use a walker or cane
• And have not found relief from other treatments.

How common are these procedures?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that there are about 719,000 total knee replacement and 332,000 total hip replacement surgeries every year. But before deciding to undergo these surgeries, you should know the possible risks.

A recent study published in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatology and reported in the Wiley Online Library found those who had knee or hip replacement may have an increased risk of a heart attack in the month following surgery. Specifically, those who receive a knee replacement may be eight times more likely to have a heart attack in the first 30 days after surgery compared to those with osteoarthritis who did not have surgery. For hip replacements, the possible risk is four times greater.

Should you get knee or hip replacement surgery?

Despite the possible increased risk for heart attacks after surgery, researchers still recommend that those with osteoarthritis don't let this information deter them from getting knee or hip replacements, according to CBS News. The best way to reduce your risk of a heart attack is to live a heart-healthy lifestyle before and after surgery. That includes maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body weight. Here are some tips to get you there:

• Kick bad habits. Smoking cigarettes has long been known to be a risk factor for heart attacks. Even long-term exposure to secondhand smoke can contribute to this. You can help your body better recover after surgery by kicking the habit now.

• Exercise. Though it can be difficult to exercise when you're experiencing pain and decreased mobility from arthritis, it's still important to strengthen your heart. Staying active can also help you maintain a healthy body weight. Mayo Clinic lists obesity as a contributing factor for heart attacks. Fortunately, losing just 10 percent of your body weight can lower your risk. Opt for low-impact exercises that don't strain the joints, such as water aerobics.

• Eat right. Maintaining a healthy heart and weight requires the right dietary choices. Besides cutting out foods that are heavy in fats and sugar, like most fast foods and packaged snacks, add more healthy foods that will benefit your heart. Remember, it doesn't have to be all fruits and vegetables (though they are excellent sources of nutrients). Heartier foods like fish and oatmeal can also be part of your heart-healthy diet.

Always speak with your physician about the right diet and exercise regimens for you. Your doctor can also provide more insight on whether hip or knee replacement surgery is appropriate for you.

To learn more about osteoarthritis:

Combatting Osteoarthritis: Could This Be an Effective Treatment?
Mental Illness Drug May Help Those With Osteoarthritis
Topical Medications for Osteoarthritis Pain Relief