Guide To Managing Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Get Regular And Appropriate Exercise

To strengthen the heart, doctors routinely advise patients with this condition to get regular and appropriate exercise. Prior to beginning any exercise routine or playing sports, patients with patent ductus arteriosus should check with their cardiology team about the safest types of exercises for their individual needs. They should also ask questions about safe time limits for exercise. Some patients may need to restrict their activity for a period of time. For example, patients who have pulmonary hypertension as a result of patent ductus arteriosus will normally have exercise restrictions put in place by their cardiologist. Patients who have recently had a catheter procedure or surgical repair for this cardiac issue will also have a short period of activity restriction. The doctor will advise patients who have had recent repairs when it is safe to begin exercising. Patients who have small cases of patent ductus arteriosus that have not been repaired can normally exercise without any restrictions. Generally, parents should not worry about vigorous exercise or rough play for their child if they have not had any exercise restrictions issued by a healthcare provider.