Aortic Dissection

Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Aortic Dissection? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

See if it is advisable for people with Aortic Dissection to practice sports and which ones are the most recommended if you have Aortic Dissection

Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Aortic Dissection?

When it comes to aortic dissection, it is crucial to prioritize your health and safety above all else. Aortic dissection is a serious medical condition that occurs when there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, the large blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This tear can cause the layers of the aorta to separate, leading to potential complications such as organ damage, stroke, or even death.

Given the severity of aortic dissection, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before engaging in any form of exercise or physical activity. Your doctor will be able to assess your specific condition, overall health, and provide personalized recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

While the type and intensity of exercise will vary depending on the severity and location of the aortic dissection, there are generally some guidelines to consider:

1. Low-impact exercises: Engaging in low-impact activities can help minimize stress on the aorta and reduce the risk of further complications. Some suitable options may include:

Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be easily tailored to your fitness level. Start with shorter durations and gradually increase as tolerated.

Swimming: Swimming provides a full-body workout without placing excessive strain on the aorta. It is a great option for cardiovascular exercise.

Cycling: Stationary cycling or using a recumbent bike can be a safe way to improve cardiovascular fitness while minimizing stress on the aortic walls.

2. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities: It is crucial to avoid activities that involve heavy lifting or straining, as they can significantly increase blood pressure and put additional stress on the aorta. This includes weightlifting, intense resistance training, or any activity that requires significant exertion.

3. Listen to your body: Pay close attention to how your body responds during and after exercise. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or rapid heartbeat, stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention.

4. Regular monitoring and follow-up: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your exercise routine. They can provide guidance on the most suitable activities and intensity levels based on your progress and overall health.

Remember, every individual's situation is unique, and what may be appropriate for one person may not be suitable for another. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or modifying any exercise program, especially when dealing with aortic dissection.

by Diseasemaps

Movement is good to prolong life. Even if it is very careful. IF a patient can walk, a daily walk is to recommend. But this is also related to the condition of each individual. Patients who have paraplegia after surgery can do less, than people who suffered from abdominal AD with no surgery. But also poeple with paraplegia needs movement. Consult your medical experts - and take their advice.

3/29/17 by Timo Söderlund 6072

Walking is recommended. Avoid extremes of heat and cold.

7/12/17 by Errol 1650

Keep active, Never over stress or exceed your limitations. High impact sports are not advisable. Adrenaline sports are also considered not to be good for AD patients as high blood pressure will be a danger and could cause the aorta to rupture. Moving the body to your limitations is a good thing, Always seek medical advice within your own parameters.

9/11/17 by Dan 1998

Cardio exercise is advisable and needed to strengthen the body such as walking riding a bicycle even jogging tai chi .... no heavy weight training the strain could cause you to burst your aneurysm ... a brisk 2 mile walk daily keeping the blood pressure as low as possible is required , If your Pre operative and "being watched" Spiking the blood pressure could cause a rupture... slowly bringing the bp up such as warming up walking and cooling down after is what your looking for .... any straining such as heavy weights could cause a rupture and subsequent bleed (even straining in the bathroom!!)

9/21/17 by Jim 5641

Yes I think it is critical. I walk 30 minutes everyday and also do 40 minutes of low key yoga for flexibility and relaxation.

9/23/17 by Christine 1400

Gentle regular exercise is needed but certainly strenuous activity show be avoided

2/3/18 by Lindsay McKinney 2520

Exercise yes you can but no heavy weights

2/4/18 by Julie 750

It is always advisable to excercise! At first, (directly after surgery) walks, the swimming and jogging

2/10/18 by Marvinskan 1100

Nothing stressful or heavy lifting.

3/2/18 by Mark 600

Yes, but no lifting or other activity that will do sudden bloodpreassure bursts. Max intensity is individual. My max is 80%.

6/3/18 by Jeppe 2300

Follow doctors orders

6/6/18 by Karhleenmc 800

Do whatever you feel comfortable with. Gently push your boundaries to try out what you can cope with. It will take time. Your body will let you know when you are doing too much! Listen to it!

9/23/18 by Stefan 2500

Walking is great for an Aortic Dissection though it will be difficult and energy draining. Build up slowly don’t push you self to hard because you body will push back taking days to recover. Gym exercise is also good but slowly build intensity. Staff away fro weights in the first six months while healing then start very slowly in how much you lift. Most importantly have an experienced exercise psychologist not an pt to develop monitor and control your exercise regime at the beginning. Rowing, cycling walking maybe difficult and plan the route so you can rest or end the exercise at your home.

11/7/18 by Sean 900

It is good to exercise and one should find a program that is suitable, but no heavy weightlifting

3/12/19 by Bengt 2500

Doctor orders. No lifting. Cardio can be ok.

5/13/19 by Chris 1600

NO exercising AT ALL

7/29/19 by MCSzombie 6220

I think low impact activities are best. I have participated in water exercise classes, and in Thai Chi groups. Walking is always good. I probably would recommend these, but I would not recommend anything else as each patient is different and this should be discussed with the person’s doctor.

10/9/19 by Sandy 2500

I had an AD and had Open heart surgery to repair my ascending aorta, however my descending aorta was left to heal on its own. It hasn’t improved much. Simple stretches and gentle yoga has been restorative for me as well as half hour walks. I am unable to lift, push or pull over 10 pounds.

1/21/20 by jessbezmc 900

Walking at moderate speed, avoid using arms / chest for heavy exercise

5/26/20 by Arne 2300

no it is not advisable to do excessive exercise.Maybe just walking.

4/2/22 by Larry 2550

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