Coronary Heart Disease Patients Can Still Stay Active After Stent Placement

Patients who have undergone stent placement for coronary heart disease are not prohibited from working or exercising. In fact, remaining physically active is an important part of recovery and long-term heart health. The key is to choose appropriate activities based on individual conditions and medical advice.

Understanding Post-Stent Physical Activity

After stent placement, patients are generally encouraged to engage in light to moderate physical activity. The guiding principle is to avoid any activity that causes discomfort, shortness of breath, or chest pain. It's essential to listen to your body and gradually reintroduce physical movement into daily life.

Recommended Activities After Stent Placement

Many everyday tasks such as light housework, walking, and gardening can be safely performed. Low-impact exercises like tai chi, walking, and playing lawn bowling are excellent options for maintaining cardiovascular fitness without overexerting the heart. These activities help improve circulation, manage weight, and reduce stress levels.

Moderate-Intensity Exercise Options

For patients who feel stronger and have received clearance from their healthcare provider, more moderate-intensity activities such as hiking, swimming, brisk walking, or playing table tennis can be incorporated. These exercises can help improve overall stamina and heart function, provided they are done consistently and without overexertion.

Activities to Avoid

However, it's important to avoid high-intensity or high-impact sports such as basketball, soccer, long-distance running, sprinting, or heavy manual labor. These types of activities may place excessive strain on the heart and could potentially lead to complications, especially during the early recovery phase.

Creating a Safe Exercise Plan

Each patient's recovery journey is different. Consulting with a doctor or a cardiac rehabilitation specialist is crucial in developing a personalized exercise plan. Cardiac rehab programs often provide structured, supervised exercise sessions that help patients safely return to an active lifestyle while monitoring heart health.