Pulmonary hypertension is basically high blood pressure isolated to the arteries in your lungs. It's often the result of a thickening along the pulmonary arterial walls, which narrows these blood vessels and restricts blood flow. As your vessels narrow and blood pressure rises, you may experience a shortness of breath during physical activity as well as fatigue, dizziness, heart palpitations and chest pain.
Suitable Exercises
Most medical professionals suggest that those with pulmonary hypertension keep as physically active as possible, but to do exercises of light to moderate intensity. Walking is by far the most common activity recommended, since it's one of the mildest forms of exercise, but your doctor may give you the go-ahead to bike, swim or even jog. Organized sports, such as volleyball, tennis or football, can be beneficial as well. Your ability to engage in physical activities really depends on the progression of the disease.
Physical activity, however, needn't be restricted to exercise. You can also benefit from gardening, raking or shoveling. Most chores are light to moderate in intensity, so you can keep up with your everyday activities while living with this condition.
Unsuitable Exercises
Though the progression of your disease influences your choice of athletic pursuits, there are unsuitable activities. Any physical activity considered strenuous should be avoided, according to the American Heart Association. This includes anything from basketball and soccer to climbing and kayaking. Lifting weights over 50 lbs. is also not advisable. Even if you feel you can engage in these activities, it's best not to, since they can increase the pressure within your pulmonary arteries.
Recommendation
Before engaging in any level of physical activity, consult your doctor. She can help establish an exercise program to keep your muscles strong, while still reducing symptoms associated with the disease. For some people, it may be appropriate to use oxygen during the chosen athletic pursuit.
Warning
If the exercise you're doing causes you to experience dizziness, chest pain or breathing problems, seek medical attention. Pulmonary hypertension increases your risks of heart failure, arrhythmia, blood clots and bleeding in the lungs. It can also lead to fainting and edema.
