Learning you have heart disease can be devastating, and the road to recovery can seem endless. If you have not been an ardent exerciser in the past, your doctor's admonition to begin an exercise program may seem like one more thing you're not prepared to deal with. But an appropriate exercise program can give you a sense of control over your disease and a new lease on life.
The Aorta
The aorta is the body's primary artery. If you think of your circulatory system as a waterway, your aorta is like the Mississippi River. Oxygen-rich blood passes from the left ventricle through the aortic valve into the aorta, which then delivers it to the to the cells throughout your body via the arteries and capillaries. When there is a malfunction or weakness of the aortic valve or the aorta itself, cells throughout the body, including the heart and brain, may not receive the oxygen and nutrients needed for optimal performance. Exercise improves oxygen delivery by building a stronger and more efficient system.
Aortic Disease
Aortic heart disease often involves complications with the aortic valve, the conduit through which the heart pumps blood into the systemic circulation. Penn State's College of Medicine divides aortic valve disease into two categories, stenosis, where the heart valve is narrowed and constricted, and regurgitation, where the valve does not close all the way, allowing blood to backwash into the ventricle. Another form of aortic disease is aortic aneurysm, where the vessel loses elasticity and becomes enlarged, sometimes tearing and leaking blood. Regular daily exercise promotes healing of damaged tissue and improved valvular function.
Exercise
The Texas Heart Institute includes chest pain and fainting while exercising as symptoms for aortic valvular disease. Nevertheless, the Institute does not warn against exercise, though it does caution against excessively strenuous exercise. According to Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, exercise is highly beneficial for patients suffering from aortic heart disease. The Institute recommends power walks of 15 to 30 minutes two to three times daily. However, they do warn against heavy lifting, which can put pressure on the aorta. If you are unable to power walk, stationary cycling or using an upper body ergometer, or UBE, will do the trick. The main point is to elevate your heart rate in order to improve cardiovascular health.
Other Lifestye Factors
In addition to exercise, Cedars-Sinai encourages positive lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation and a diet that is low in fat and processed carbohydrates and rich in protein and fiber. Staying active and choosing healthful daily habits can improve quality of life and may help you avoid extreme medical interventions such as surgery.
