Exercise tips if you have a pacemaker or ICD
If you have a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), here are some exercise tips to follow during your cardiac rehab program.
- Choose continuous rhythmic activities such as walking, cycling, or water exercises.
- Always warm up and cool down.
- Avoid extreme environmental conditions. If it is too hot or cold, exercise inside only.
- Always wear loose, comfortable clothes and shoes that fit properly.
- Avoid contact sports, which may dislodge the pacemaker or ICD.
- Do not hold your breath for any reason, especially when you strain.
- STOP exercising if you feel any:
- Pressure or pain in your chest, neck, arm, jaw, or shoulder.
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea.
- Unusual shortness of breath.
- Unusual tiredness.
- Heartbeat that feels unusual for you: too fast, too slow, or skipping a beat.
- Other symptoms that cause you concern.
- Shock from the ICD.
| Author: | Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: October 16, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Cheryl Allind, RN, BS - Cardiac Rehabilitation Neil J. Stone, MD, FACC, FACP - Internal Medicine, Cardiology | |
 | ||