Can Exercise Cause a Heart Attack?
Can Exercise Cause a Heart Attack
The Risk of Heart Attack During Exercise
Cardiac arrests in the gym are a growing concern. In a recent study published in JAMA Cardiology, experts found that the rate of cardiac arrests during exercise has increased by 30% in the past year. The study also found that younger people and women are more likely to experience a cardiac arrest during exercise than older men. So what makes your heart stop while you're working out? What happens to your body when you're about to have a heart attack or cardiac arrest?
What happens to your heart during exercise?
In response to increased muscle oxygen demand, your heart rate and blood pressure rise during exercise.Your heart also pumps more blood to your muscles to help them get rid of waste. So, when you exercise more than your body can handle, your heart can have a hard time working properly. If this is not addressed, it can lead to a cardiac arrest in the gym.
Can working out at the gym lead to a heart attack?
Not necessarily! Exercise is a great way to maintain your health and fitness, but it's important to listen to your body and take breaks when you need to. If you experience any of the following signs, it's best to stop exercising and rest:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath, or dizziness
- Sharp pain in your joints or muscles
- Severe fatigue or lightheadedness. This means that if you're feeling so tired or lightheaded that you can't safely continue your workout, it's best to stop and rest.
- Headaches during exercise can be a sign of dehydration, low blood sugar, or exertional headache.
- Unusually sore muscles. If your muscles are hurting more than usual after your workout, it's a sign that they need time to recover.
These are all signs that your heart is under stress and you may be at risk of a heart attack.
It's important to note, however, that the benefits of exercise far outweigh the risks. Regular exercise can help improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels.
It's also important to note that the risk of a cardiac arrest in the gym is very low, even in people who are at risk for heart disease. So, the key is to be aware and know the signs and symptoms that your body is giving you when it's under extreme stress and needs rest. You should pay attention to these signs to keep yourself safe while exercising.
Additional information:
- In addition to the signs and symptoms listed above, you should also be aware of any changes in your heart rate or rhythm. If you notice your heart racing or skipping beats, it's best to stop exercising and see a doctor.
- If you experience a cardiac arrest while you're working out, it's important to call 911 immediately. CPR and defibrillation can save lives.
- If you have a history of heart disease or other risk factors for heart disease, talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. Your doctor can help you create a personalized exercise plan that is safe and effective for your individual needs and goals.
By following these tips, you can help keep yourself safe and healthy while exercising.
Important Articles
- Water: How much water should you drink every day?
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
- Almonds May Help With Weight Loss and Heart Health
Image from [playgroundai.com].