AskDocDoc
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #15793
45 days ago
74

yoga for heart patients - #15793

Diya

I am really worried about my dad. He's had heart issues for a few years now, and I just don't know what to do. He used to be so active but now he barely moves. A friend suggested yoga for heart patients, but I'm still kinda skeptical about it. Like, can it really help him? I mean, he's not super flexible or anything, and honestly, the thought of him trying to do yoga kinda makes me nervous! He struggles with breathin sometimes, and I wonder if yoga for heart patients is safe or if it will just make things worse. Last week he nearly passed out just getting up from the couch, which totally freaked me out. He’s been doing his meds, but his doctors haven’t mentioned yoga for heart patients. Should I bring it up with them? I found a local class that says it’s made for heart patients, but I’m not sure how to convince him to give it a shot. I can just imagine him saying he can’t do it. Has anyone had success with yoga for heart patients? I really hope there’s something that can help him feel better.

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Yoga can indeed be beneficial for heart patients, but it’s understandable to have reservations especially when someone’s been experiencing significant health issues. Yoga may help improve flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance overall cardiovascular health when practiced safely and appropriately. It’s important, however, for your dad to consult his healthcare provider before starting yoga, especially because he has heart issues and has experienced symptoms like nearly passing out and difficulty breathing. These could indicate underlying problems that need to be carefully monitored during any exercise regimen. If his medical team gives the green light, starting with a specialized class designed for heart patients, as you mentioned, could be a safe way to begin. Such classes are usually led by instructors experienced in dealing with individuals with heart conditions. They often focus on gentle poses and breathing exercises, making it well-suited for someone who’s not very flexible or new to yoga. His instructor should be informed about his medical history and current symptoms, so they can tailor the practice accordingly.

Encouraging your dad to try just a little bit at first could help him ease into it without pushing too hard. Sometimes sitting down and having a conversation about the potential benefits—like lowering blood pressure and helping with relaxation—might make him more open to the idea. Just be sure that any symptoms like lightheadedness, chest pain, or extreme fatigue are communicated with his healthcare team right away, as they may need to adjust his care plan. Adherence to medication and routine medical appointments should continue alongside trying yoga. It’s also worthwhile mentioning this to his cardiologist or primary care provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on his medical history and condition, which can reassure you both of the suitability of yoga for his situation.

9931 answered questions
85% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions