Exercising with Neurocardiogenic Syncope

BlacknightDH
BlacknightDH Posts: 6 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I am attempting to exercise but am finding it hard because I have Neurocardiogenic Syncope. The disorder makes me really dizzy very quickly to the point I can pass out and then leaves me groggy and drained for hours to days.

I manage it very well in everyday life and only have "attacks" when my stress levels get high or I get sick. However when I exercise I have an attack within 5 - 10 minuets.

Does anyone here know a way I can prevent this so I can start exercising?

Replies

  • susanp57
    susanp57 Posts: 409 Member
    I used to faint a lot with low BP. Perhaps If you tried a seated exercise like a stationary bike?? Whatever, I wouldn't try it while alone.
  • NavyKnightAh13
    NavyKnightAh13 Posts: 1,394 Member
    I'm not really sure to be honest. I am hoping that someone out there can help my husband out.
  • Pixi_Rex
    Pixi_Rex Posts: 1,676 Member
    I know nothing about this type of thing so I may be way off base but wouldn't a good place to start be by asking your Dr or specialist or what ever what they think? Sometimes they have an idea, explain that you are trying to lose weight and would like to be more active but don't want to have an attack, even if it ends up just being walking for 15 minutes 3 times a day or what ever its better than nothing right?
  • lisabinco
    lisabinco Posts: 1,016 Member
    DH had a similar cardiac issue, fainting a couple times while stretching and bonking his head on cement once. His doc told him to stretch while sitting down, and to only do exercises from the floor. So floor yoga exercises is what he does, on carpeting or a mat now. So far so good.
  • PikaKnight
    PikaKnight Posts: 34,971 Member
    Can your doctor recommend a physical therapist to work with to teach you which exercises will be okay to do?
  • EdwarddeVere
    EdwarddeVere Posts: 178
    I am attempting to exercise but am finding it hard because I have Neurocardiogenic Syncope. The disorder makes me really dizzy very quickly to the point I can pass out and then leaves me groggy and drained for hours to days.

    I manage it very well in everyday life and only have "attacks" when my stress levels get high or I get sick. However when I exercise I have an attack within 5 - 10 minuets.

    Does anyone here know a way I can prevent this so I can start exercising?

    This needs to be answered by your doctor. Do not take any advice that is stated here.
  • bumblebums
    bumblebums Posts: 2,181 Member
    Yeah, this is a question for a doctor, not for the internet.
  • Babyglass13
    Babyglass13 Posts: 27
    I also have Neurocardiogenic Syncope. I started having issues when I intentionally lowered my sodium intake. After they completed the tilt table, my cardiologist had put me on Midodrine, but it really messed with my system. I felt worse while exercising when I was on it. I have upped my sodium intake closer to where it was before and have fewer issues when running.

    One thing I have found that works is I have a high sodium snack (which usually consists of crackers or Goldfish) or maybe a boiled egg with lots of salt before I head out for a run. (These days it's just a walk due to my pregnancy, though.) I also make sure to carry at least 20 ounces of water with me and stay close to the house. If I start feeling dizzy, I cut it off. I'd rather have a shortened workout than be unconscious on the side of the road. :o) Not sure if this is much help. Good luck to you!
  • krystal_black
    krystal_black Posts: 86
    I am a cardiac nurse, you should talk to your doctor about appropriate exercies and cardio. Also see if your gym has a cardiac group or ask your doctor about cardiac rehab.
  • jchaparro
    jchaparro Posts: 11
    I also have the same condition. I have had it since 1996 and it becomes really frustrating because I cannot control it. Discuss it with your doctor. I use a recumbent bike a lot of times. I also use exercise dvds that way if I feel an attack coming on I can stop. I always have the ceiling fan on when excercising as when I get overheated it stimulates the spells as I call em. I am on disability due to them along with other health issues and it can be challenging but only do what feels right your body will signal you. Please discuss with your doctor as each person is different.
  • stingrayinfl
    stingrayinfl Posts: 284 Member
    Ask your doc
  • meeper123
    meeper123 Posts: 3,347 Member
    Doc docdoc doc......doc doc
  • emilydmac
    emilydmac Posts: 382 Member
    What about lifting weights so your blood pressure doesn't rise too much?
  • cbailey28072
    cbailey28072 Posts: 18
    My suggestion would be to ask your cardiologist for a referral to a physical therapist who specializes in cardio patients. Work with that person to put together a safe cardio program for you. Best of luck to you!
  • rockymtnlove
    rockymtnlove Posts: 215
    definitely talk to a doctor and they should be able to give you some exercises you can do. Have you tried very slow yoga?
  • bumblebums
    bumblebums Posts: 2,181 Member
    definitely talk to a doctor and they should be able to give you some exercises you can do. Have you tried very slow yoga?

    One has to be careful even with "very slow yoga" with a heart condition. Turning the body upside down in forward bends or even something as simple and safe-seeming as Child's Pose can be counterindicated for a heart patient.

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