Sauna

I received my first pacemaker two weeks ago tomorrow. Being relatively active, I'm feeling the itch to resume some form of exercise, so I've decided to go to the gym tomorrow and do a bit of cardio work (treadmill, stationary cycle, etc.). I'm wondering if there is any reason I should avoid a relaxing 10 minutes in the sauna after my workout?
Ed

3 Comments

probably ok

by Tracey_E - 2010-06-07 05:06:00

Just having a pm is not a reason to avoid saunas but the underlying reason why you need it might make it a bad idea. Why did you get the pm? Be aware that saunas can shoot up your hr. If you feel funny, get out. I can handle hot tubs but saunas are too much for me.

Extreme temperatures

by auntiesamm - 2010-06-07 10:06:27

Hi Edouard, I have not been on this forum for many months. Just celebrated my 4 year anniversary with my little marvel that keeps me going. I was told by the cardiologist way back when it is best to avoid extreme heat whether a shower, bath, spa, etc. He said due to the cardiac condition not the pacemaker it could be deadly; he allowed that I could enjoy the spa or hot tub for no more than 10 minutes and to pay attention to how I felt. The heat in the sauna would be much more extreme than the spa I believe. I've been in the spa a few times but don't find it relaxing as I am always worrying it might be too much. lol Whatever you do make sure you have another person around. The best exercise for me has been walking and swimming. Good luck as you continue healing and God bless and keep you safe. Sharon, So CA

Sauna

by ElectricFrank - 2010-06-08 02:06:27

Glad to hear you are raring to go as far as exercise is concerned. The sauna shouldn't be any problem if you don't stay in high heat too long.

One other suggestion: With your pacer only two weeks old you likely haven't had a checkup yet. It is common practice for them to leave the pacemaker set to the factory defaults until the first checkup. The main problem for those of us that are active is that the upper pacing limit is set to 120 bpm. I won't go into all the technical details, but the effect is that you may suddenly experience an erratic heart rate (like skipping beats) on the treadmill or bike. If you do I would advise against pushing it past that point. If they don't have you scheduled for a checkup for 3 months as also happens, call and ask for one earlier. Tell them that you want to get back to activities.

One other thing: your ECG waveforms are different now that you have a pacer which can confuse the heart rate monitors on exercise equipment. For now at least I suggest taking your pulse manually.

best,

frank

You know you're wired when...

Your license plate reads “Pacer4Life”.

Member Quotes

I'm still running and feeling great.