Exercise for mild aortic regurg

[Chris Green]

Hi all,

I am (fortunately) still at the mild aortic regurgitation stage, and the big day could be quite some time. In the interim I want to take the best care of myself as I can.

I wonder what advice people have received with regards to exercise for people in my position. I saw a cardiologist last week and he was unable to offer me many answers. He advised me certainly not to engage in competitive sports, which I don't any more anyway.

I have in the past 18 months been exercising aerobically at my local gym, keeping my heart at about 75-78%. I feel great, but I wonder whether this is doing me good, or harm in the long term.

I know you're not all trained professionals and I should perhaps seek further advice. I'm just interested to see if there is a general concensus on this (and also if anyone knows any sites where I could get further professional opinion).

Thanks in advance
Chris Green

 

[JBriau]

Hi Chris:

According to my cardiologist exercise is important. I say
basically do what you feel is right for. I wouldn't advise
heavy lifting. But walking is always good. I have severe
aortic regurtitation. I am waiting for surgery but I still
exercise. I enjoy walking and still can do 20 minutes
of low impact exercise. Alot of stretches, leg bends
a slight jog on the spot, low leg kicks, stuff like that.
I have no problem with angina or shortness of breath.
Due to the exercise I am in excellent shape other than
my valve. My cardiologist and surgeon can't believe
with the severeness of my aortic leak that I don't have any
major symptoms except I tire easily.
I check my pulse and monitor my blood pressure. It's good
to know your at rest pulse and blood pressure and you pulse
and blood pressure after exercise.
Hope this helps you some!

Judy

 

[Ross]

Hi Chris

Like Judy, I'm at the severe regurg level, but I do have breathlessness and I'm tired all the time. As far as mild regurg, the only thing they told me was to not lift anything heavy, stay away from contact sports, and to excerise as much as I could tolerate.

I'll get you the link to The Cleveland Clinic Heart Forums, but it is difficult to get your question posted and answered. Perhaps one of the more knowledgeable members here can provide you with more.

http://www.medhelp.org/forums/cardio/wwwboard.html

 

[Chris Green]

Thanks

Thanks

Thanks for your replies,

It seems I am doing things just about right. My at rest heartrate is low to mid 50's, and my blood pressure is ok. It is encouraging to know that keeping in shape is a benefit rather than an extra strain on the heart.

Chris Green