A beta-blocker is a type of medication used for a certain heart conditions. It is possible to exercise while taking a beta-blocker if you follow certain guidelines. A beta-blocker can slow your heart rate in addition to having other physical side effects that you need to be aware of during your exercise regimen. Consult with your doctor before starting or changing an exercise program.
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers are many different medications used to treat hypertension, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms and chest pain. They block the effects of adrenaline in your body, which slows nerve impulses that travel through your heart. As a result, your heart doesn't have to work as hard and slows because it needs less blood and oxygen. Beta-blockers also block impulses that can cause an abnormal heartbeat.
Exercise and Beta-Blockers
Since beta-blockers slow your heart rate, it might be difficult for you to reach your target heart rate when you exercise. An exercise stress test measures how much blood flows through your heart when you exercise and is the most accurate way of adjusting your target heart rate while exercising. Another less precise way of adjusting your target heart rate is to lower your target heart rate by the number of beats your resting heart rate has been lowered when using a beta-blocker. For example, if your heart rate has been lowered by 15 beats when you are at rest, lower your target heart rate during exercise by 15 beats.
Precautions
When exercising, it's important to be able to sweat because it helps to reduce your body temperature. If you take a beta-blocker, the medication may impede sweat production and cause a heat-related emergency. Take frequent breaks when you exercise, and drink plenty of water. In addition, if you have asthma or exercise-induced asthma, a beta-blocker may be dangerous because it may trigger an asthma attack related to its vasoconstrictive effects. Inform your doctor if you have asthma or have ever had an attack.
Visit Your Doctor
Your doctor may recommend a stress test to help you establish a target heart rate while on your beta-blocker. He may also give you some specific instructions related to some potentially dangerous side effects that can occur when you take a beta-blocker while exercising. Always keep your doctor informed, and always follow her instructions.
