Before You Begin | Exercise Care Guide

Return to Index Step 1: What is an Allergy?Step 2: The Role of the Immune System Step 3: What Substances Cause Allergies?Step 4: Allergy-Related Conditions Step 5: Should You See an Allergist?Step 6: Allergy Testing and Diagnosis Step 7: Introduction to Allergy Treatment Step 8: Avoid Allergy Triggers Step 9: Types of Allergy Medication Step 10: Over-the-Counter vs Prescription Drugs Step 11: Immunotherapy Step 12: You and Your Doctor Are a Team Key Points Glossary

*Close Menu*

Return to Index Step 1: Understanding Morbid Obesity Step 2: The Health Risks of Obesity Step 3: Treatment Overview Step 4: How Weight Loss Surgery Might Help Step 5: Gastric Bypass Surgery Step 6: Vertical Banded Gastroplasty Step 7: Laparoscopic Adjustable Banding System Step 8: Post-Surgical Nutrition Step 9: Post-Surgical Exercise Step 10: Post-Surgical Lifestyle Changes Key Points Glossary

*Close Menu*

Exercise can help just about anyone feel and look better. However, some people should be cautious about beginning an exercise program. A doctor can help assess your risks and plan a program that is safe for you.

If you do not currently exercise, speak to your doctor before you begin, especially if any of the situations described below apply to you.

See a doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

Any serious medical condition like diabetes, asthma, emphysema, cancer, or a history of blood clots in your legs or lungs.
Pain or pressure in the chest, neck, shoulder, or arm during or right after activities such as walking.
Bone or joint problems, including arthritis or osteoporosis (especially arthritis that has flared up so that one or more of your joints is red, swollen, or painful).
A heart condition, angina (chest pain), high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

Also, see a doctor if any of the following apply to you:

Over age 40 or 45, and have not been active.
Feel very breathless after mild activity.
Tend to get dizzy, lose consciousness, or are subject to falls.
Have experienced a feeling of your heart racing, skipping, or fluttering.
Have had recent surgery, particularly to the eye or hip.
Have an active infection or fever.
Are experiencing any other unusual symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss
You smoke.

Ok, so you know exercise is good for you and you've talked about it with your doctor. It's time to get started! Read on...

Review Date: 3/12/2007

Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.