What can exercise do for those with transient ischaemic attack?

This paper studied whether exercise would reduce heart risks in patients with transient ischemic attack.

A transient ischemic attack occurs when there is a temporary blockage caused by a build-up of cholesterol (fats) in a blood vessel to the brain. Because the blockage is only temporary, there is no permanent damage to the brain. However, someone who has had a transient ischemic attack is at an increased risk of a stroke (blockage of blood vessel to the brain). Management of a transient ischemic attack involves drugs to lower cholesterol levels, drugs to prevent blood from sticking together (clotting) and exercise to improve heart health. 

The current study examined whether exercise starting within 2 weeks of a transient ischemic attack could lead to long-term heart health benefits. 27 patients received 8 weeks of exercise and education sessions. 24 patients received only standard educational information on preventing further attacks. Cholestrol levels, blood pressure and weight were measured for each patient. Fitness levels (such as oxygen uptake, or how much oxygen is used by the body during exercise) were measured with exercise tests. These assessments were done at the start of the study, after the exercise program and at 12 months follow-up.  

Overall, patients who had both exercise and education had a greater change in blood pressure than patients who received only education. 61% of patients who received exercise and education had at least a 10 mmHg decrease in blood pressure.  

The exercise program led to a significant decrease in body weight (4.4 kg) after 12 months. Patients in the education only group gained 0.3 kg. A greater oxygen uptake was seen in patients who received exercise and education than in patients who received education only. 

The authors concluded that early exercise treatment had a positive long-term effect on the overall health of the heart. 

Talk to your doctor about how exercise can improve your health.