Can people with myocardial ischemia and coronary artery stenosis play sports?

(Mr. Le Tin, 50 years old, residing in Long Thanh town, Long Thanh district)

Doctor replied:

Hello!

Exercise training in normal individuals as well as in those with cardiovascular risk factors is generally necessary to reduce cardiovascular events. However, when myocardial ischemia and significant coronary artery stenosis are identified, appropriate exercise selection must be made. This should also be individualized based on assessment of cardiovascular function.

You should consider avoiding contact sports such as football, especially if you have signs of progressive myocardial ischemia during sports, severe coronary artery stenosis (50% in the main trunk, 70% in major branches, FFR <0.8), ejection fraction <50% or regional myocardial movement disorders, ventricular tachycardia or multiple ventricular premature beats at rest and revascularization within 12 months due to acute coronary syndrome.

You can choose recreational activities or light-to-moderate intensity exercise, starting with moderate exercise and gradually increasing when the body responds well and there are no signs of myocardial ischemia (chest pain, shortness of breath, low blood pressure or arrhythmia...). Furthermore, full treatment of the disease with coronary intervention measures - stent placement or coronary artery bypass surgery should also be considered by a specialist.

Wish you good health!

MD, PhD Nguyen Van Toi,

Department of Cardiovascular Intervention, Dong Nai General Hospital