We are very used to using the word tachycardia at times when, for example, we get nervous. Ultimately, it is not a concept that is used simply to describe an altered state that we suffer at a specific moment, but, in reality, a tachycardia can be a serious health problem. When we suffer from a heart problem of these characteristics, on many occasions doctors advise not to practice sports or not to carry out those sports activities that involve a high effort on our body. For this reason, if you are one of those who want to play sports with supraventricular tachycardia or know someone in these circumstances, in this article we explain the considerations that must be taken into account.
What is a supraventricular tachycardia?
A supraventricular tachycardia is episodes of rapid heart rate that begin in a part of the heart located above the ventricles.
A normal heart rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute . A heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute is called “tachycardia.” It occurs when the electrical impulses that coordinate the heartbeat do not work properly . It can feel like a vibration or acceleration in the heart.
Symptoms
Supraventricular tachycardia can come and go suddenly, with periods of normal heart rate in between . Symptoms can last from a few minutes to a few days. This situation becomes a problem when it occurs frequently and is constant, particularly if you have heart damage or other concurrent health problems.
Those who suffer from this heart disorder may experience agitation in the chest, rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath . They may also experience dizziness, lightheadedness, sweating, a feeling of pounding on the chest, and fainting .
Causes
For some people, supraventricular tachycardia episodes are related to an obvious trigger. This can be psychological stress, but also lack of sleep or physical activity. In others, there may not be a specific cause.
Some factors that can trigger or cause an episode of tachycardia are chronic lung disease, smoking, or alcohol . It also affects consuming too much caffeine, drugs, or pregnancy .
Playing sports with supraventricular tachycardia
Before playing sports with supraventricular tachycardia, it is important to take into account several aspects. First, that the type and amount of exercise allowed will vary depending on the cause of your abnormal heart rhythm. They will also depend on whether or not you have other forms of heart disease.
For example, if your irregular heartbeat is a consequence of another type of heart disease (such as cardiomyopathy or a valve problem), you may have to limit your activity due to the cause of the arrhythmia.
Before exercising
If you like to practice sports constantly but have been diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia , you should follow some guidelines before continuing sports activity.
Talk to your doctor
This professional is the one who can give you a physical exam, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and possibly a stress ECG to assess the level of activity your heart can tolerate.
Exercise plan
Another recommendation for playing sports with supraventricular tachycardia is to develop an exercise plan with your doctor. This could include stretching exercises, activities that increase your heart rate (aerobic exercise), and strength-training exercises (lifting light weights). Therefore, it is necessary for a professional to tell you how far you can go.
Check heart rate
Likewise, you should learn to check your heart rate . Thus, you will have to know how to take your pulse. Your doctor can tell you how fast this should be when you exercise.
Signs
Also, it is imperative that you know what symptoms could be a sign of a serious problem . For example, you should immediately stop exercising and rest if you experience palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
Precautions when playing sports with supraventricular tachycardia
There are several precautions that you should take into account before playing sports with supraventricular tachycardia .
Control intensity
One of the important points to keep in mind when exercising with an arrhythmia of these characteristics is to control the intensity of the activity by alternating exercises . For example, alternate short walks with more intense exercises, such as low-impact aerobics or swimming.
Avoid extreme temperatures
On the other hand, avoid exercising outdoors in extreme temperatures or high humidity . When the weather is bad, try exercising at home or in a gym, for example.
Try not to hold your breath
Avoid exercises that require holding your breath , such as push-ups, abdominal exercises, or heavy lifting.
Avoid hot or cold baths after exercise
Don’t take hot or cold showers, or take a steam bath in a sauna after exercising . Moderate temperatures are the most recommended because extreme temperatures can be dangerous.
Medication use and exercise
Ask your doctor how to continue the exercise program if you change your medication . Many of them can affect our body when we practice sports.
Take the pulse
You will need to check your pulse frequently or wear a heart rate monitor if you play sports and have supraventricular tachycardia . Of course, make sure your pulse stays within the parameters set by your doctor. Do not forget to be attentive also when you walk uphill or when you go up the stairs.
