Portal hypertension refers to abnormally high blood pressure in the portal vein, which carries nutrient-enriched blood from the intestines to the liver. Cirrhosis of the liver is one of the most common causes of the condition, though a blot clot or thrombosis may also cause decreased blood flow in the liver, leading to portal hypertension. Before starting any exercise program, especially if you've been diagnosed with any type of medical problem or condition, you should talk to your doctor about what types of exercise are beneficial and won't worsen your condition.
Exercising with Portal Hypertension
High impact or high-intensity exercise is not recommended for those diagnosed with portal hypertension, as an increased heart rate also increases the pressure in the portal vein, according to Nina Dib, Frédéric Oberti and Paul Calès, writing in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. Portal hypertension may cause increased risk of bleeding for those diagnosed with a severe portal hypertension blockage through weakened or blocked blood vessels.
Moderate Exercise Cautions
Studies performed by the University of Barcelona, Spain, determined that moderate exercise like bicycling increased arterial pressure and heart output, and showed a decrease in the ability of the vascular or blood vessel walls to withstand the pressure caused by cycling exercises at between 30 percent and 50 percent of peak capacity, according to J.C. García-Pagàn et al, writing in Gastroenterology. Therefore, you should always discuss the possible repercussions or risks associated with exercise with your doctor, as determined by your degree of portal hypertension or current medical condition. Those diagnosed with portal hypertension and those with esophageal varices, or dilated veins found in the lower esophagus, may experience an increased risk of bleeding, as may those diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver.
Mild Portal Hypertension
If you've been diagnosed with mild portal hypertension or a liver condition that results from poor liver function, such as Hepatitis C, you may engage in exercise following permission and guidance from your doctor. Common exercises may include gentle walking and swimming.
Lowering Blood Pressure
Because you may not be able to engage in exercise programs that involve more than walking, you may be advised by your doctor to reduce hypertensive conditions through lifestyle modification and diet to help lose weight, lower cholesterol levels, and prevent further damage to the liver or portal vein function.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Portal Hypertension
- "Canadian Medical Association Journal"; Current management of the complications of portal hypertension; Nina Dib, Frédéric Oberti and Paul Calès; May 2006
- Hep C Primer: Infomation about the Hepatitis C Virus
- "Gastroenterology"; Physical exercise increases portal pressure in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension; García-Pagàn JC et al; November 1996
