Beta blockers are a class of drugs that are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and other heart conditions. They work by blocking the action of adrenaline and other hormones that increase heart rate and blood pressure. However, beta blockers can also have side effects, one of which is shortness of breath during exercise.
Table 2 provides information on the effects of beta blockers on various organs and systems in the body. Specifically, it shows that beta blockers can decrease heart rate and cardiac output (the amount of blood pumped by the heart per minute), as well as reduce blood flow to the skeletal muscles.
During exercise, the body's demand for oxygen and nutrients increases, and the heart has to work harder to pump more blood to the muscles. However, beta blockers decrease the heart rate and cardiac output, which can limit the amount of blood and oxygen that reaches the muscles. This can lead to fatigue and shortness of breath during exercise.
In addition, beta blockers reduce blood flow to the skeletal muscles, which can also contribute to the feeling of breathlessness. The skeletal muscles need oxygen and nutrients to produce energy during exercise, and reduced blood flow can limit their ability to do so.
Overall, the effects of beta blockers on the cardiovascular system can make it more difficult for the body to meet the increased demands of exercise, leading to shortness of breath and other symptoms.