Experts advise that people with chronic
diseases, such as a heart condition, arthritis, diabetes, or high blood
pressure, should talk to their doctor about what types and amounts of
physical activity are appropriate. If you have a chronic disease and
have not already done so, talk to your doctor before beginning a new
physical activity program.
If you have symptoms that could be due to a chronic disease, you should have these symptoms evaluated, whether you are active or inactive. If you plan to start a new activity program, take the opportunity to get these symptoms evaluated. Symptoms of particular importance to evaluate include chest pain (especially chest pain that is brought on by exertion), loss of balance (especially loss of balance leading to a fall), dizziness, and passing out (loss of consciousness).