Chemotherapy is a life-saving treatment for cancer. However, it can sometimes be accompanied by cardiac issues. Some patients undergoing chemotherapy may experience heart problems such as arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or even heart failure.

The heart is a vital organ that plays an integral role in sustaining bodily function. Therefore, it is essential to protect the heart while undergoing chemotherapy.

What is Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity?

Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (CIC) is a term used to describe the potential heart problems that may occur during chemotherapy treatment.

This condition can affect different parts of the heart, including the heart muscle, the coronary arteries, the valves, and the electrical conduction system. CIC may lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, and fatigue. It can compromise the patient’s quality of life and even be life-threatening in severe cases.

How Can Exercise Help?

There is growing evidence to suggest that exercise can help prevent or mitigate CIC.

Exercise can improve cardiovascular health by enhancing heart and lung function, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting blood vessel growth, and improving lipid and glucose metabolism. Exercise can also help protect the heart against the toxic effects of chemotherapy drugs by enhancing autophagy, a cellular mechanism that clears damaged proteins and organelles.

What Type of Exercise is Best?

The optimal type of exercise for protecting the heart during chemotherapy is not clear.

However, it is generally recommended to engage in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Resistance training, such as lifting weights or using resistance bands, can also be beneficial to maintain muscle mass and bone density. Flexibility and balance exercises, such as yoga or Pilates, may help improve mobility and prevent falls.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, especially during chemotherapy treatment.

When Should Exercise be Avoided?

There may be some circumstances in which exercise should be avoided during chemotherapy treatment.

For example, if the patient has severe cardiac symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath at rest, they may need to rest until the symptoms subside. If the patient has low blood counts, such as anemia or thrombocytopenia, they may need to avoid high-impact or contact sports that increase the risk of bleeding or bruising.

If the patient has a compromised immune system, such as after a bone marrow transplant, they may need to avoid crowded gym environments or outdoor activities that increase the risk of infection. It is important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider before starting or modifying an exercise program.

What Precautions Should be Taken?

When exercising during chemotherapy treatment, it is essential to take some precautions to ensure safety and effectiveness. These precautions include:.

Start slowly and gradually increase intensity, duration, and frequency of exercise over a few weeks.
Monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and symptoms during and after exercise and report any concerns to a healthcare provider.
Stay hydrated and avoid overheating by exercising in a cool and well-ventilated environment and wearing appropriate clothing and shoes.
Do not exercise with an empty stomach or within two hours after a meal to avoid nausea or vomiting.
Avoid vigorous exercise on the days of chemotherapy infusion or when the immune system is compromised.
Listen to your body and adjust your exercise program according to how you feel.

What Are Other Ways to Protect the Heart During Chemotherapy?

In addition to exercise, there are other ways to protect the heart during chemotherapy treatment. These include:.

Eating a heart-healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.
Avoiding smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, meditation, or massage therapy.
Taking medications as prescribed and reporting any side effects to a healthcare provider.
Attending regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider to monitor heart function and adjust treatment as needed.

Conclusion

Exercise can be a powerful tool in protecting the heart during chemotherapy treatment. However, it is essential to balance exercise with caution and individualization to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Communicating with a healthcare provider about exercise habits and goals can be helpful in designing a personalized exercise program that meets individual needs and preferences. With proper care and attention, exercise can help enhance the benefits of chemotherapy and improve heart health and overall well-being.