Heart failure is a devastating condition, impairing your ability to complete everyday tasks and zapping your energy. But most heart disease is lifestyle-induced, and should be a wake-up call to make some changes. According to the Mayo Clinic, the best way to prevent heart failure is to address the conditions that cause it. In addition to encouraging you to lose weight, change your diet and quit smoking, your health care provider may prescribe exercise as part of your treatment.
Heart Failure
The Mayo Clinic describes congestive heart failure as a condition where the heart has become weak and stiff as a result of narrowed arterial passages and high blood pressure, unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body's needs. Unhealthy nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle are primarily to blame. Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling of legs, feet and ankles, irregular heartbeat, persistent cough and fluid retention. The nature of these symptoms reduces the capacity of the heart and lungs during exercise.
Safety of Exercise
In the past, exercise was considered too risky for heart failure patients, but in recent years exercise has become part and parcel of treatment. In a 2003 Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association Committee on Exercise, Rehabilitation and Prevention, the Committee concluded that "exercise training in patients with heart failure seems to be safe and beneficial." The statement offers guidance for health care professionals who prescribe exercise for their heart failure patients.
Exercise
Most rehabilitative exercise programs for heart failure are geared to walking or stationary cycling. While there is some variance in opinion as to how much exercise is appropriate, there is a consensus that an ample warm-up is essential. The American Heart Association recommends exercise three to five times per week, with a 10- to 15-minute warm-up followed by 20 to 30 minutes in your target zone, then a five-minute cool-down. Your health care provider can give you guidelines for exercise duration and intensity.
Exercise Programs
Initially after diagnosis, a supervised exercise program is best. Many hospitals and clinics host an in-house cardiac rehabilitation center featuring a variety of equipment and a qualified staff. If such a facility is not available, some commercial gyms have trainers qualified to work with you, or you may be able to hire a qualified professional to work with you in your home. Before hiring a trainer, obtain medical clearance and exercise guidelines from your health care provider.
Other Considerations
Exercise is an important part of your treatment for heart failure, but other self-care initiatives are also necessary. Restricting your sodium intake, monitoring your blood pressure, balanced nutrition and taking your medications are all important measures. Smoking, alcohol and caffeine consumption should be restricted or avoided altogether. Becoming actively involved in managing your condition will empower you to have some control over your quality of life while living with heart failure.
