When to start exercise?

[Maradona10]

Caveat: I understand I am not asking for or receiving medical advice. Simply canvassing opinion from those with similar experience etc.

I had a stent inserted a month ago. It wasn't a planned procedure. I haven't been contacted by NHS cardiac rehab for my initial assessment yet. This could take some time, I anticipate.

So, my question is: am I supposed to just sit about, waling 30-45 mins a day until I hear from them? Or am I best advised to start light exercise?

Only looking for thoughts as I am bored! Ha. Things going OK so far in terms of progress. Still get light headed, short of breath on occasion etc as I heard is rather common.

Anyway thanks for any responses, in advance.

[Blearyeyed]

You may not be contacted by Cardiac Rehab yet but you can call the BHF helpline for guidance of when to start light exercise and request for them to send you some links to cardiac rehab activities or an email including rehab PDFs for you to gradually begin.You could also contact your local Cardiac nurse for this information as they can assess what is right for you based on your actual history and individual progress as a patient.

Start slow and gradually build up activity within your comfort zone. Walking and some gentle stretching exercises are the best first option but do listen to your body .

[Maradona10 in reply to Blearyeyed]

Thanks. Good thoughts here.

[Rosie1066]

When I was discharged in end June I was given a leaflet on cardiac rehab with a list of those in my area and I was told to phone my local Centre a book directly, which I did. Had my assessment on 22 August and now waiting for a place to become vacant. No idea how long I will have to wait.

[SNA4724]

I was contacted in week 2-3 buy the hospital gave a leaflet om guidance and what to do amd not do im a 4 week period post stent. (I had mine like u fitted now 5 1/2 weeks ago.)

Start off week 1 - 5mins a day walking

Week 2 - 10mins

Week 3 and 4 - 20mins building to 30mins with a 5min cool down.

Always take your GTN spray with you when out.

They should comtact you about the support online too during this period. I have had two online presentations and yesterday 1st session of CBT and Friday my 1st group session.

Hope that helps somewhat but remember rest should follow any exercise or exsersion.

[Maradona10 in reply to SNA4724]

Thank you. Very helpful. I begged for a rehab assessment today and managed to na one tomorrow.

[SNA4724]

That is fabulous!!!! Well done x