Just wanted to update you guys on how my exercise program is going. I have been meeting with a personal trainer now for two months, twice a week for about 45 minutes. I have had NO major setbacks so far!!! She happens to also be a nurse, so I felt less anxious about working with her. She was unfamiliar with Dysautonomia, POTS, but researched it so that she would understand my condition(s). Needless to say, she was nervous about working with me and saw me (as I did) as fragile. But we started on a VERY gentle program and slowly increased, respecting my limits and doing shorter sessions when needed.
I am now up to doing recumbent bike, leg and arm strengthening,balance, weights for arms, sit ups, stretching, and am starting to do a little weight training on my legs. When I started the bike, even on its lowest speed, felt quite difficult. I drink lots of fluids before, during, and after our session. I have noticed significant improvements in strength, balance, and endurance. I am actually enjoying myself! I can't believe it. I did not think I would be able to do this and have tried to exercise for many years, only to get very sick. It helps so much to have someone there, guiding and encouraging me. And I am noticing that I feel better about my body, which is nice too. :) And of course exercise is good for mood and dealing with stress, which I have plenty of.
I should mention that one reason I decided to try an exercise program was that I finally have my blood pressure and heart rate under control. Clonidine, Fludrocortisone, and salt supplements seem to have made the most difference. I am on other meds too, but these are the ones that improved my BP and HR.
I won't have the $ to work with the trainer as often next year but will see her some and continue exercising on my own at the gym and at home. My health insurance, Medicare Advantage Blue Cross, allows $650 per year for gym membership. If you haven't already, check out your plan to see if they offer anything.
Hope this is helpful. I'd be interested in what success other people have had with exercising.
Isn't it nice to hear some GOOD NEWS?!
Laura