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Indian Heart Journal logoLink to Indian Heart Journal
letter
. 2018 Jun 28;70(3):461. doi: 10.1016/j.ihj.2018.06.013

Authors reply: Exercise, but with caution!

Sundeep Mishra 1,
PMCID: PMC6034038  PMID: 29961474

Reply

There is a need for regular aerobic exercise in patients with heart failure with a view to improve functional capacity and reduce symptoms as well as the risk of heart failure related hospitalization. However, the therapeutic window of this approach is rather narrow and there is a possibility of harm as well if overdone. The need of the hour is to individualize this approach for each specific patient (tailor the exercise regimen according to patient's phenotype and ability) but also region-specific guidelines (based on resources available and level of general education in the area). In this context proposed rehabilitation algorithm is a good idea particularly its emphasis on low-resource regions with emphasis on six-minute walk test to determine the physical capacity. As a matter of fact, active measures should be undertaken to educate not only cardiologists/physicians, physiotherapists, regulators but also patients regarding the salutary aspects of regulated exercise. However, the exercise programs should be custom made for individual patients and may even require the help of professionals. Furthermore, some practical tips should be given to these patients:

1. Don’t exercise outdoors in extreme weather/high humidity. Do indoor exercise instead.

2. If the exercise produces any undue symptoms (palpitations, chest pain or pressure, difficulty in breathing, dizziness or lightheadedness) immediately stop exercising and take rest. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.


Articles from Indian Heart Journal are provided here courtesy of Elsevier

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