"They tell him to take some exercise and give him a tablet for the pain, that's all they do, " she said.

BBC: Bahrain activist Nabeel Rajab 'denied medical treatment'

There are other ways to get some exercise and reap the benefits - a Dutch study found commuters who cycle take less time off sick.

BBC: Too many men 'unconcerned' about weight health risks

Then his broker offered some advice: Cash in those options, but instead of selling some of the shares to cover the exercise price and related taxes, just take out a margin loan.

FORBES: Out of Options