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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Safe Exercises When Suffering From Atrial Fibrillation

My husband was just discharged with AF & 7 days in ICU. I believe he is depressed now as he just want to sit and watch TV. I am a nurse and believe he should start moving around slowly now. We have a treadmill also. What kind of movement and exercise can I start him on now without doing any further damage. We ve had insurance problems and confusion so our first cardiologist appointment isn t for almost another week. I really feel like I m flying alone right now (age 75) thanks to good old Medicare advantage. Thank you so much Jo Ann
Tue, 16 Feb 2021
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

If his heart beats faster and irregular some times but not all the times (Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation), it is always better to do exercises when episode of Paroxysmal AF is not happening. If he is in AF all the times, he can exercise freely, as long as his heart is under control, he is stable on his treatment and feeling well.

It is important to think about how you are feeling. If you become breathless quickly, then reduce the intensity. A brisk walk is suitable for these patients. Start the exercise gradually increasing the intensity and also decreasing it gradually before stopping exercise. Jogging, hiking, using an exercise bike or treadmill are also safe. Light weight lifting may also be done. If you think that he is having the symptoms of depression, then an anti-depressive drug may be started under guidance of his doctor.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Satnarain Bansal, General & Family Physician
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Suggest Safe Exercises When Suffering From Atrial Fibrillation

Hi, If his heart beats faster and irregular some times but not all the times (Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation), it is always better to do exercises when episode of Paroxysmal AF is not happening. If he is in AF all the times, he can exercise freely, as long as his heart is under control, he is stable on his treatment and feeling well. It is important to think about how you are feeling. If you become breathless quickly, then reduce the intensity. A brisk walk is suitable for these patients. Start the exercise gradually increasing the intensity and also decreasing it gradually before stopping exercise. Jogging, hiking, using an exercise bike or treadmill are also safe. Light weight lifting may also be done. If you think that he is having the symptoms of depression, then an anti-depressive drug may be started under guidance of his doctor. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Satnarain Bansal, General & Family Physician