These are all good questions. You are right - the amount of leak can actually decrease while exercising due to the increase in the heart rate, though whether that actually happens in an individual is complex. If exercising caused the blood pressure to become very high, the leakage could increase. However, in a well-conditioned athlete, I would not expect this to happen to a great extent. I think continuing to exercise in a moderate fashion is OK, though I would avoid heavy-weight lifting and would avoid competitive running. However, most cardiologists would give the same advice that yours did - that it is safer to avoid doing anything strenuous until after the surgery. In a runner, I would recommend an aortic homograft instead of a mechanical valve - you would probably be able to keep running with a homograft.
Thanks a lot for the good input!...One follow-up question...while my doctor says surgery is not imperative yet, and took a neutral stance on going ahead vs. waiting & monitoring, I indicated that by waiting I'll just be older & not in as good physical condition (he didn't disagree). I'll keep an open mind, pending my discussion with my surgeon, but if it's likely the surgery will be necessary at some point in the future,I'm feeling like it may be better to proceed at this point (if surgeon seconds opinion)....My logic making any sense? Thanks!
Your approach is logical. I agree with your cardiologist and have a neutral stance. My real answer would really depend on just how bad the leakage is and how your heart (on the echocardiogram) is responding to the added workload. Unlike in certain situations, surgery for aortic valve regurgitation can sometimes be safely deferred with medications. However, you are right that surgery will ultimately be necessary.
Hello There Tim,
I am writing you to let you know about a list that myself and several other Heart Valve Replacement patients have created.
I am a 33 year old male who had aortic valve replacement surgery in April of 1999. I often had questions about stuff like what do other people