Which condition is an absolute contraindication to starting an exercise program due to risk of inflammatory cardiac injury?

Which condition is an absolute contraindication to starting an exercise program due to risk of inflammatory cardiac injury?

• A. Controlled hypertension.
• B. Mild asthma.
• C. Active myocarditis.
• D. Stable valvular disease.

Answer: (C)

Active myocarditis is an absolute contraindication to starting an exercise program because inflamed heart muscle is highly susceptible to injury when stressed by exercise. Increasing heart rate and contractility during activity raises oxygen demand and electrical instability, which can lead to dangerous arrhythmias, worsening heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. Recovery requires medical treatment and rest until the inflammation subsides and cardiac function stabilizes, with clearance before resuming physical activity. The other conditions can often be managed or gradually progressed under medical guidance, but they do not carry the same immediate, absolute risk as active myocarditis.

Active myocarditis is an absolute contraindication to starting an exercise program because inflamed heart muscle is highly susceptible to injury when stressed by exercise. Increasing heart rate and contractility during activity raises oxygen demand and electrical instability, which can lead to dangerous arrhythmias, worsening heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. Recovery requires medical treatment and rest until the inflammation subsides and cardiac function stabilizes, with clearance before resuming physical activity. The other conditions can often be managed or gradually progressed under medical guidance, but they do not carry the same immediate, absolute risk as active myocarditis.