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When to stop exercising

If you have heart problems, ask your health care provider about an exercise program that is safe for you. Follow the program closely. As you exercise, check your heart rate and monitor your body's responses. Stop and rest if you have any of the following symptoms. If they do not go away after resting, or if they keep happening, contact your doctor or nurse right away. Use Nitroglycerin as directed by your health care team. If you feel no relief, call 911.

Signals to stop exercising:

  • pain, pressure, burning or tightness in your neck, jaw, teeth, and arm, or between your shoulder blades
  • dizziness or light-headedness
  • nausea and vomiting
  • cold sweat
  • heavy sweating
  • shortness of breath that makes talking difficult
  • unusual fatigue or exhaustion
  • feelings that your heart is pounding or racing
  • fainting or black-out spells
  • a feeling that your heart is skipping beats or has become irregular
  • chest pain or pressure
  • any new orthopedic problems, such as joint or muscle pain

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Source: Allina Patient Education, Helping Your Heart, fourth edition, cvs-ahc-90648

First published: 10/04/2002
Last updated: 06/01/2007

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts

 

 

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