Is it ok to do exercise during an AR ... - Atrial Fibrillati...
Is it ok to do exercise during an AR episode if I feel well enough?The sort that gets you out of breath and the heart going more than usual?
Bikerboy, It is really hard to say yes or no. It all depends on your AF and how it effects you. Some have AF and have no symptoms at all and the exercise (while keeping an eye on the heart rate) may be no problem. But some have major symptoms which include severe shortness of breath and lowered blood pressure which could be a problem with exercise due to lack of oxygen getting to the cells and the chance of passing out. I would suggest you speak to your Dr about it. I guess it would also matter what type of exercise you do.
Tim
Thanks Tim, I didn't think it would be a simple yes or no! I stayed off the ski slopes in Feb for a day because my heart was irregular, but felt well enough for a walk round the village.I'm still not sure if I needed to have - it was the sunniest day of the week!
I was thinking more of going out cycling, and whether any steep hills might be bad.
I generally feel well during an AF episode, no pain, shortness of breath, weakness, and my pulse is around 90 to 100. Hope this info helps you. B
Bikerboy, Are you taking any meds for your AF?
Most Drs will tell you that you can do Normal routines as your body permits. With that said.... One of the primary concerns is the blood pressure. A very high blood pressure during exercise can be very bad. Also a very low blood pressure and cause you to pass out during exercise. Both of those can happen during AF because of the irregular heart beat. During my attacks (prior to my ablation) my blood pressure would get pretty low. I did have bouts of dizziness but never to point of blacking out. This could be a bad thing while cycling. But my attacks were pretty severe with a pulse at about 175 to 185 BPM and although I tried to resume normal activities during an attack, My body would definitely tell me when it was time to take a break.
Tim
I understand exactly when you say Drs say "do normal routines as your body permits"
It sounds like a case of simply listening to your body.
I've been on medication for hypertension for years, my BP is ok because of them.
My first AF (back in Jan) was prompted by a bout of pneumonia, this cleared after a while, during which I was on betablockers (bisoprolol 2.5 mg) An echocardiogram and 24hr ECG were both clear of any episodes, I recently got the all clear and came off the betablockers, but have just had another virus, which has triggered further irregular episodes, but without the racing pulse - it was steady at around 100. I know a lot more now, and am a lot more reassured. Many thanks for your replies and your help. B
You are welcome... Let us know how it's going and ask questions when you need. We are all here to help.
Tim
Hi , I also tried to ski in Jan - My problem started on the ski slope the previous Jan - I only found trouble walking up to lifts - heart rate 180 + , but found a sit in the cafe for about 15 mins and I was O K - but decided that it was too much for a return in Feb & March Apre ski a bit limited as was worn out after a day on the slopes - I put a lot down to age 71 - Hope to make up for Next winter , John
