Aggrenox is a prescription medication used to reduce the risk or prevent another stroke in people who have had blood clots or a "mini-stroke," also called a transient ischemic attack. Aggrenox contains a combination of aspirin and dipyridamole, and works by preventing blood clots. Exercise can reduce your risk of stroke, and can also reduce your risk of having a subsequent stroke. Always talk to your doctor about exercise to receive specific instructions related to your health condition.
Precautions
Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some may have a dangerous reaction with Aggrenox. Also inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions. Avoid taking Aggrenox if you are pregnant, and don't give this medication to children because it contains aspirin. Aggrenox may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or mild heartburn. Stop using Aggrenox and call your doctor immediately if you develop hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling around your face, lips, tongue or throat. Also stop taking Aggrenox and call the doctor if you have weakness or fainting; bloody or tarry stools; coughing or vomiting blood; severe nausea, vomiting or stomach pain; fever for more than three days; swelling or pain that lasts more than 10 days; or hearing problems.
Benefits of Exercise
An exercise program can improve cardiovascular health, enhance recovery in stroke survivors and reduce the risk of another stroke. According to the National Stroke Association, research shows that regular exercise and repetitive movements can improve a stroke survivor's disabilities years after a stroke. Walking is usually the best type of exercise for stroke survivors, as it improves cardiovascular endurance and involves repetition. If you're a stroke survivor, for safety, start walking on a treadmill that has handrails.
Blood Clot Prevention
According to a study in the "Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis," cited by the ScienceDaily website in 2007, regular participation in sports reduces the risk of developing blood clots by 39 percent in women and 22 percent in men. The study indicates that exercise is beneficial for heart and potential blood clot development even for seniors. During the study, people who did not participate in sports and were obese were more than four times as likely to develop a blood clot.
Exercise Precaution
Aggrenox may cause dizziness or fainting, and exercise may increase these effects. If you feel dizzy or faint while exercising, stop the exercise and sit or lie down for safety. If you continue to feel dizzy while you exercise, talk to your doctor.
