The standard line of treatment includes modification of diet as well as adding a proper – not strenuous, workout regime for dealing with pulmonary hypertension. Since the severity of PH varies from patient to patient, thus, the type of exercise also differs. Here are some safety tips that you should keep in mind while doing it.
7 Exercise Safety Tips for Pulmonary Hypertension Patients
Here are some tips you must remember before and during your workout session.
Do Not Ignore Your Body Calls
Listen to what your body is trying to tell during exercise. If you feel tired, dizzy, or light-headed, stop immediately. Although some extent of shortness of breath may occur, you still should be able to control and carry on a conversation. If you struggle to catch your breath even after resting for five minutes, reach out to your doctor or call 911 for assistance.
Ask Your Doctor Before Starting Exercise
Before embarking on your new exercise journey, it is crucial to consult with your pulmonary hypertension care expert team. They provide custom guidance to ensure that your exercise plan is tailored according to your specific needs and health condition.
Choose the Best Time
Work out when you feel most energetic to enhance your overall experience.
Work Out With A Partner
You can always stick to your plans better with a partner rather than solo. Having a workout buddy ensures safety and provides support in case of any emergencies.
Breathe Naturally
Avoid holding your breath while exercising. Instead, focus on maintaining a steady and controlled breathing pattern. This will help oxygenate your body.
Practice Warm-Up and Cool-Down Time
Add a warm-up and cool-down routine to your exercise regimen. You, with pulmonary hypertension, may need a longer warm-up period for exercise.
Start Small, then Progress Gradually.
Begin with manageable exercise sessions and gradually increase intensity or duration as you feel comfortable. Pay attention to your body’s signals and stop if you feel excessively fatigued.
Exercising for Pulmonary Hypertension – The Benefits
- Ease In Breathing: Exercise improves your breathing patterns and capacity, helping to manage shortness of breath.
- Enhanced Endurance: Regular exercise boosts your endurance power, allowing you to engage in activities for a long time with no feeling of fatigue.
- Strengthened Body: Exercise strengthens your body (muscles, joints, bones, and heart), improving your overall physical fitness.
- Engage With Family and Friends: Exercise helps you to engage in activities you enjoy, like gardening, playing with your kids or grandkids, or walks with your dog.
- Find Your Safe and Enjoyable Activities: The key is to search for exercise that you enjoy doing.
When To Know You Are Going Overboard?
- Shortness of breath
- Lightheadedness
- Stabbing chest pain
Suitable Exercises For PH
Some good choices of exercise include the following:
- Light aerobic activity such as walking or swimming.
- Low-impact resistance training.
Final Note
You can rely on lung specialists from Pulmonary Medical Consultants to help you understand your situation and provide a proper treatment plan. We are located at 27721 State Highway 249, Suite 300, Tomball, TX 77375. Dial (281) 357-1300 to connect with us right away.