out of cardiovascular shape

Hi all,

I had my third pacer about 6 weeks ago and have recently tried to start exercising again; however, I am concerned about what type of program I should do. Prior to this surgery, I mostly weight lifted. Now, I get a little more out of breath just walking, so I am afraid to even think about lifting weights.What type of exercise program do you do and have you been able to exercise the same since your pacer? Is it best to exercise or not with cardiac issues? I see elderly people at my gym in better cardiovascular shape!
Lexi

4 Comments

Changes since last pacemaker?

by ElectricFrank - 2008-05-30 01:05:05

Hi Lexi,
You mentioned getting out of breath walking. Did this just start with the new pacemaker? If so it is likely it needs some adjustment. They tend to leave a new pacemaker set to the the factory defaults rather than use the old ones settings as a guide.
The main settings that cause problems with exercise tolerance are the upper limit and rate response. The factory default for upper limit usually is in the 110-120bpm range which is easy to hit with even mild exercise. Unless there is some cardiac condition to justify the low settings they should be willing to start with at least 140. I had to get insistent to have mine set to 150. I don't go there often but it gives me headroom.
The rate response is only needed if you have problems with atrial pacing. Otherwise, it conflicts with your own natural pacemaker.

frank

try cardiac rehab

by tedlutz3 - 2008-05-30 08:05:59

have you ever tried a cardiac rehab program at your local hospital? these programs have treadmills, stairclimbers, bikes, etc. check with doctor for approval, but i think the workouts are great with professional supervision. you may qualify for medical insurance coverage.

Excercise post PM

by maryanne - 2008-05-30 12:05:28

Well seeing as this is your third PM you are no newbie to this. I must assume you have been given the ok by you doctor to start an excercise program. If you have been given the ok with no limitation I say do what your body tells you to do.

I am on my fourth PM and I run up to 15km at a time...I do weight training I just like to keep active...some days I have more energy than others but that is natural for all of us...start off by walking or on a treadmill or stepper...and gradually increase...don't compare yourself to others...just yourself...where do you want to be...and go for it......best of luck to you....

PM Adjustments

by richan - 2008-06-05 07:06:02

Hi Lexi,
I think ElectricFrank has it right. There are a lot of things that can be done regarding "fine tuning" that can help. I know that I have been in and out of my cardio's several times over about 1.5 years for tuning.
I'm doing OK today.

Richan

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