Exercises That Can Prevent & Reverse The Severity Of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

For many, a diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy comes too late. Strenuous athletic competitive activity is often the trigger for sudden death in those with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. However, a moderate exercise program with guidance may reduce or reverse hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Regardless of your condition, consult with your doctor and consider testing for heart conditions before starting your exercise program.

Evidence

Exercise can be effective at reducing or reversing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, according to a study published in "Circulation Research" in 2006. Scientists induced rats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and encouraged them to engage in voluntary physical activity. Their exercise habits and physiological adaptations were compared to rats without cardiomyopathy. Exercise was able to reverse markers of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as well as prevent cardiac disease. In addition, exercise did not increase the mortality rate of the rats with hypertrophic cardiomyopahty as compared with the healthy rats.

Adaptations To Exercise

Regular aerobic exercise leads to beneficial adaptations inside your cardiovascular system. One of the biggest benefits to those with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the decrease in heart rate. A lower resting and exercising heart rate affords the heart more time to fill with blood during its resting period. This is particularly important for those with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy because a characteristic of this disease diastolic dysfunction. Longer periods between beats means more time for the ventricle to fill with blood leading to a larger cardiac output, supplying the body with the blood that it needs.

Your Exercise Program

Aerobic exercise is the form of exercise that can help prevent or reverse the severity of hypertorphic cardiomyopathy. Noncompetitive aerobic activities that are usually safe for people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy include walking, slow jogging or biking. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the appropriate exercise program varies depending on your personal history and disease progression. Work with your doctor in preparing a safe and effective exercise program.

Warnings and Considerations

Those with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy must avoid strenuous or intense activities. This includes competitive sports and weight lifting. Having hypertrophic cardiomyopathy means you need to be aware of the signs and symptoms that something is going wrong, especially during exercise. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, extreme shortness of breath or palpitations, stop exercise and seek medical help. If you notice an increase in your recovery time or an onset of these symptoms while not exercising, contact your doctor and stop your exercise program until you have clearance from a physician.