Cirrhosis develops when your liver becomes severely damaged. According to MayoClinic.com, damage can be due to chronic alcohol abuse, cystic fibrosis, iron buildup or hepatitis. Every time damages occur, scar tissue builds up to try and repair the liver. Over time, this buildup will slowly shut down the functioning of the liver and result in further health complications. Including an exercise program will assist with managing your cirrhosis and enable you to live a healthier lifestyle.
Complications of Cirrhosis
Living with cirrhosis greatly affects your overall health and well being. Complications you can experience include increased risks of infections, malnutrition and portal hypertension, as described by MayoClinic.com. Developing one complication increases the likelihood that you will develop further complications. For example, as your scar tissue becomes thicker and your cirrhosis levels increase, your body will have to work much harder at regulating blood flow which will enhance the blood pressure in your veins.
Benefits of Exercise
Having cirrhosis does not mean you have to lead a sedentary lifestyle. Incorporating exercise provides you with numerous benefits to assist in living with your condition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Exercise boosts your energy levels, improves your self-image, enhances your cardiovascular system, and lowers your body-fat percentage as described by Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Organization. These benefits are important in helping you regulate your cirrhosis and manage your weight.
Considerations
Although you may have had previous experience with exercising, it is necessary to first check with your primary caregiver to make sure that you are clear to begin an exercise program. The main focus of your exercise program is to start small and progress gradually. Know your body and recognize your limitations. If you feel fatigued after working out that would be a sign that you are pushing yourself too hard. Modify exercises as necessary to assist with your overall goal of enhancing your health and well-being.
Aerobic Activities
Including aerobic activities, such as walking, biking and swimming, assist with managing your cirrhosis. Through incorporating these activities you will improve your cardiovascular system and lower your fatigue levels. Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Organization states the importance of including aerobic activities so that you increase your aerobic capacity allowing your liver to regulate blood flow more consistently. This in turn will lower your blood pressure levels, because your veins will be able to work more efficiently.
Strength Training Activities
Living with cirrhosis puts you at risk for developing osteoporosis, which is why it is crucial to include strength training. Increasing your bone density levels also increases your muscle strength. Other risk factors of cirrhosis include muscle wasting and developing a fatty liver, as described by Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Organization. Increasing your muscle strength through the use of resistance band training, weight training or body-resistance training assists with reducing the degree to which you will experience muscle wasting and reduces the chances of your developing a fatty liver since your fat levels will be lowered.
