When can I return to doing the things I enjoy?
Taking it easy at first
As you recover from acute rheumatic fever, you might find that you become tired easily or your joints are still painful. Take it easy and pace yourself.
Your rheumatic fever specialist, nurse and GP will be able to guide you on when you can return to your everyday activities and things you enjoy.
Sports and exercise
When you have been sick and not exercising or moving around much, your body will need time to return to its normal exercise levels.
Your healthcare professionals will be able to give you advice that is specific to your situation. It all depends on how severe the rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease is. It also depends on the impact it has had on your heart.
What questions can I ask my rheumatic fever care team about exercise?
If you want to know more about when you can return to exercise, you can ask your rheumatic fever specialist, nurse or GP, the following questions:
- when can I start light exercise?
- what does light exercise include?
- when can I do higher-intensity strength and cardio exercise?
- what higher-intensity strength and cardio exercises does this include?
- when can I return to playing sports?
- what sports can I play?
Other parts of the journey
My rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease journey introduction
Checklist - going home from hospital after my rheumatic fever
Taking care of my health after a diagnosis of rheumatic fever
What exactly is rheumatic fever?
My rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease journey in pictures
What exactly is rheumatic heart disease?
How will my rheumatic fever be managed?
What other ways can I look after my health after rheumatic fever?
When can I return to doing the things I enjoy after rheumatic fever? (You are here)
Will I need regular medical check-ups after rheumatic fever?
Acknowledgements
This information is adapted from the rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease booklet produced by the Rheumatic Fever Project Team, Te Whatu Ora - Counties Manukau, 2022.
References
Rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease booklet (PDF, 9.94 MB). Te Whatu Ora - Counties Manukau, 2022.
