Can physical activity, stress be actually detrimental to your heart?

What exercises are suggested for a female of 42 at 170lbs with an enlarged heart?

• What exercises are suggested for a female of 42 at 170lbs with an enlarged heart from birth? I had a minor heart attack at 27 and was much heavier. I lost almost 100lbs within the year after my heart attack just by walking (due to job) and eating two small meals a day. I learned it was really bad to eat so poorly because I continued to have heart issues. It swelled on one side causing it to tilt and thump so hard sometimes it was like getting punched in the chest. My stress test came back in normal limits with no concerns. No medication were prescribed but I started eating better. I now eat whole foods and more often with the correct portions, but since losing my job a year ago, I have gained more than 40lbs and the thumping is back daily with periodic pain in the top left of my chest, toward my shoulder. I am still unemployed and have no health insurance but feel the weight change and minimized activity is the problem. I plan to do a 10day veggie juice fast and I already started walking on a treadmill for 30-45 min three times a week, I cut diet coke (for a few days now) but still drink 2-4 cups of coffee a day. I take all the doctor recommended vitamins still no medications. In one month I am down by 15lbs but my chest doesn't feel better. I finished physical therapy from my knee surgery almost a year ago, but it is still painful to walk down stairs and I can't run without stumbling. I have lightweights and a Plates chair but don't use them because of the daily chest pain. My grip is strong and equal, blood pressure is 104/70 (low is normal for me). What are some suggested exercises to help strengthen my core and my knees but heart smart?

• Answer:

  First thing when starting any exercise program and having a pre-existing condition (your heart problem) is to discuss this with your doctor or cardiologist or both. None of us know the tolerance of your heart - especially since you are now having chest pain that has not been evaluated. If something is occurring with your heart, you could exercise yourself right into another heart attack or death unless you get permission from a physician on this before starting to exercise. I don't believe anyone on this forum can give you accurate advice because we do no know the condition of your heart and it's tolerance for exercise. Walking is the most recommended exercise for anyone with any health conditions but even that needs approval by your doctor since you have currently having symptoms.