Exercise pre-AV surgery

[Eva58]

Hi, im waiting for surgery date for replacement AV. My exercise level has dropped off a lot due to increasing symptoms, angina for eg, while im awaiting surgery is it safe to continue with some gentle exercises like yoga for example? Or exercise bike? Thank you

[Rhinos67]

Hi Eva58

I was told to stay active, but within reason. Basically gentle walks.

Anything floor based or swimming makes your heart have to work harder, so not sure about Yoga 🤔

If you are waiting for surgery maybe consider joining our Facebook group- UK Aortic and Defects Pre and Post surgery. Everyone is or has been in your situation, so can support you.

Joanne

😊

[Hidden]

Dear Eva58

A warm welcome to your first post.

I was extremely active before my happening and I was told to stop all that I was doing and just walk, I also did yoga and was told that it was putting to much strain on my heart { but then just waking up in their eyes was to stressful }

I think the secret is to keep moving, gently and with purpose, think about moving and how much you do.

Your Cardiology dept can help you more.

Sadly I never returned to the fitness level that I once was, but that's my old life and this new one takes a bit of getting used to.

I never really walked before but the miles now under my belt have made both me and the dog { Nixie } slim and fit in a different way, bigger lungs, rose cheeks and a tight low fat body.

You will find your own level again I promise you, but now its time to concentrate on getting that heart well.

Take care

[AdamJames157]

Hi Eva,

First of all, I want to wish you the very best for your upcoming surgery. I had OHS on the 27th September to replace my bicuspid aortic valve.

I had severe symptoms so I mainly walked everywhere. I previously ran and cycled a lot but noticed I’d get very tired and cold very quickly. Breathlessness was a problem because of my valve.

You may wish to speak to your cardiologist but I think something like Yoga (as long as you’re not overdoing it) would be fine.

Very best wishes to you. Please let us all know how your surgery goes.

Adam

[Eva58 in reply to AdamJames157]

Than you Adam. 👋🙏

[Wizard_of_Oz]

Hi Eva, you are in good company on this forum and you will be fine. I am 7 months post AVR and back to full activity. I had a quick onset of symptoms in the 3 months prior to surgery when I exercised, so on diagnosis stopped everything except walking. I even limited this since too much caused chest pain. Listen to your body and if you need to slow down pre-op probably not a bad thing. No specific advice on yoga 🧘‍♀️, sorry. Best wishes.