Exercise Impacts Heart Disease and Heart Rate

When a person is diagnosed with a heart condition, one of the first things the doctor will recommend is an exercise regimen. But before getting started, you should know how exercise impacts heart disease and heart rate, how to recognize signs of over-exertion, and how to handle the unexpected.

Before heart patients start an exercise routine, doctors often conduct a stress test to determine the safest level of physical activity. Once cleared, patients should know their resting pulse and a safe exercising pulse so they can monitor heart activity. Be sure to have plenty of water on hand, and experts also recommend keeping nitroglycerin pills available in case you need to calm your heart's rhythm.

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Begin any workout with light aerobic activity like walking, swimming, light jogging, or biking, with the goal of increasing the intensity of the workout over time. Plan to warm up for at least five minutes before beginning to exercise and feel free to take rest periods if you find yourself growing tired.

Be on the lookout for any symptoms that may indicate too much strain on the heart, including chest pain or pressure, dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, numbness of the arms, or nausea. If you experience any of those symptoms, stop exercising immediately and be sure to journal symptoms so you can share them with your doctor. If symptoms are severe, see a doctor as soon as possible.

The American Heart Association, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the American College of Sports Medicine all agree the benefits of moderate exercise for most heart patients outweigh the risks. However, you should always check with your doctor before starting any program. In most cases, you’ll be told to start slow, be mindful of any unusual symptoms, and follow up with your doctor if needed.

This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.

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