Heart Patients Guide To Safe Exercise!

Exercise is beneficial for everyone but for heart patients, it can be a bit challenging. But, never the less if you are suffering from Coronary Artery Disease, Heart attack, Heart Failure or Valvular Diseases then exercise can do wonders for you.

Why Should You Exercise?

Exercising can improve your heart condition and quality of life. It will also slow the progression of your disease and keep your blood sugar, cholesterol and tolerance of ischemia in check.

Things to consider while exercising

Check-in With Your Doctor Before starting any exercise always ask your doctor the basic questions about the kind of exercises you can do, how many times in the week can you do that and about the different precautions you should take. Ask about any changes you need to make in your medication and if you should take a stress test. Take your doctor's advice before starting any exercise routine. Start At A Slower Pace Don't start heavily exercising on the very first day instead start with light exercise or stretching for 10 mins initially and slowly increase the timing. Don't Exercise In Extreme Temperatures Do not exercise when it's too hot, cold or humid outside as it may cause difficulty in breathing and chest pain. Instead, go for indoor exercising. Drink Water Staying hydrated is important while exercising. Do not forget to drink water on hot days and consult your doctor about the right amount of water intake to avoid drinking too much water. If You Take A Break, Slowly Resume Your Exercise If you take a few days break from your normal exercising routine then resume your exercise slowly and then work up to the level you were to avoid overstressing your body. Things you shouldn't ignore while exercising

• If you have an increased heartbeat which isn't going back to normal even after you stop exercising then call the doctor immediately.
• If you are having dizziness or feeling light-headed then take a break.
• If you have swelling and pain in the chest region, shoulder, and joints. Consult your doctor.
• If you are having difficulty breathing, do not continue the exercise until approved by the doctor.
• Do not exercise while having a fever or other symptoms.

Exercises that you can do

Stretching Exercises These exercises are great starting exercises that relax your muscles and keep your joints mobile. Start with a few stretching exercises before moving on to your exercise routine. Resistance exercises Resistance exercises like lifting weights are good for developing muscle endurance and strength. You can choose the resistance exercise that best suits you after consultation from your doctor. Aerobic Exercises Aerobic exercises increase your heart rate and breathing rate thus, improving your blood circulation. But, do not over exceed your limit with these as they can be dangerous if you are body is not ready for a heavy workout. Get into A Cardiac Rehab!   If the idea of exercising alone after a heart attack or surgery scares you, you can join a cardiac rehab for support. Cardiac rehab is just like any other gym with trained health professionals monitoring your health and ensuring that you safely exercise along with providing you with some health education. You can build up your confidence, learn how to exercise safely in three weekly visits for three months. Now, that you have all the information you need, stay safe and live your life more healthily.