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LVH and swimming and snorkling
Going on vacation today and just got the call that I have LVH. Made a cardiologist appointment for when I return, but wondering if Swimming and snorkling ( above water only) should be avoided. We are going to an island to do that activity!
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My cardiologist advised me, for a different problem (atrial fibrillation) to not lose the benefits of fitness and to keep up doing fitness to the extent possible. Hypertrophy means enlargement, and in your case it is the left ventricle. That might be due to valve problem, restricted aortic valve for example, or some other issue. I would continue to do what you can, but maybe tone it down for now. But the best person to respond to this would be your EP or cardiologist or GP.
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1 ReactionI have heart failure with my left ventricle the problem as right is normal. I used to SCUBA but stopped that when I got an AICD/Pacemaker. I do swim twice a week with snorkel. I was told to keep up my exercising.
It is important to keep exercising your heart to keep it from getting weaker or worse. How is your BP? My EF (ejection fraction) has been the same for many years now. However your EP and cardiologist should give you the exercise advise.
You don't mention symptoms. Many with your condition like me have no symptoms. My EF got below 30 so 17 years ago I got a AICD/Pacemaker. My EF has remained around 20-25 since them. I do not have any restrictions on exercise but this comes from my EP and cardiologist not from those not trained to give advise.
Doing what you enjoy doing and exercise is going to be what is recommended to you based on your symptoms. Just a phone call, portal message, or visit to your EP or cardiologist would help lesson your apprehension and is what I would recommend. FYI: I just swam yesterday a mile after an hour of water aerobics. A great way to relax and get exercise. I listen to music on my underwater music player head phones.
I would go have fun and swim and snorkel. I'd tone it down some listen to your body and not be afraid on next sentence. I would bring my medical records on my phone, cardiologist phone number, when I got to the island get their number where they are located, buy insurance to be evacuated if needed just remember to have a whole lot of fun and do things you normally would not have a chance to do. Tell us how much fun you had when you get back. I tell you this speaking of personal experience.