Exercise is a good habit that will bring us many health benefits. It plays an important role in the prevention of heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and many other diseases. However, it may also get one into trouble especially when he or she has not exercised for a long time.

Paul, a 69-year-old man, told his story about what happened to him after a jogging in that particular morning after he returned from an oversea trip.

He felt breathless, lightheaded and found himself perspiring heavily. This was not the usual reaction that he used to have. He knew something was wrong. So, he tried to keep himself awake by turning on the television. But, he still passed out.

Fortunately, he regained his consciousness later on and he decided to visit his doctor to check out his wound on his head. He reached safely to the clinic, and he fainted again during the consultation with the doctor.

He was told later that the doctor gave him two aspirins before sending him to the hospital. The tests conducted at the hospital confirmed that he had suffered a minor heart attack and one of his arteries was over 90 percent blocked. The doctor attributed the heart attack to his high cholesterol level and over exertion of his heart from his jog. A stent insertion was performed for his blocked artery and was discharged shortly.

During his first follow-up with his doctor, he was introduced to cardiac rehabilitation, a program covering nutrition, exercise, and proper management of risk factors. He right away turned down the suggestion because he thought he could control his diet and exercise on his own.

With the persuasion and encouragement from his family members, he finally agreed to join the program. He recalled that his left arm was unable to move as freely as it used to be after the stent insertion. However, his left arm was as good as new after a few months of guided exercise introduced during the program. He is also aware of the type of exercises that are suitable for him and are not too taxing for his heart.

Paul’s advice to heart patients who have not started or continued with the cardiac rehabilitation program is to begin it soon so as to enjoy its full benefits. And for the healthy people is: “Adopt a heart healthy lifestyle! If you have not been exercising for some time, always consult your doctor before you commence any exercise.”