Exercise as Medicine: Evaluation and Prescription for Adults with Congenital Heart Disease
David Leone1, Jonathan Buber1, Keri Shafer2
1Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
Understanding exercise physiology as it relates to adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) can be complex. Here we review fundamental physiologic principles and provide a framework for application to the unique ACHD patient population.
Recent Findings:
ACHD exercise participation has changed dramatically in the last 50 years. A modern approach focuses on exercise principles and individual anatomic and physiologic considerations. With an evolving better understanding of ACHD exercise physiology, we can strategize plans for patients to participate in dynamic and static exercises. Newly developed technologies including wearable devices provide additive information for ACHD providers for further assessment and monitoring. Preparation and assessment for ACHD patients prior to exercise require a thoughtful, personalized approach. Exercise prescriptions can be formulated to adequately meet the needs of our patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
01:26Exercise Stress Test
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
01:17Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
01:17Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System I:Echocardiography
Indications: Echocardiography is utilized to diagnose heart failure, valve disorders, and myocardial infarction. It also assesses cardiac structures' size, shape, and motion,...
01:26Heart Failure Drugs: Inotropic Agents
01:30Pulse rhythm
Conversely, an irregular pulse pattern is termed dysrhythmia, stemming from disruptions in cardiac...