Exercise Induced Heart Attacks

Heart attacks are a significant global health concern and their prevalence is influenced by factors such as age, gender, lifestyle and access to healthcare. Heart attacks induced by exercise area a rare but serious occurrence. However, exercise is generally beneficial for heart health. Exercise-induced heart attacks, also known as exertional myocardial infarctions (MI), can occur during or shortly after physical exertion, such as exercise or strenuous physical activity. These events are a result of reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, which can lead to damage or death of heart muscle cells due to a blocked artery.

Do you know the facts behind excessive and intense exercise induced heart attacks? If not, kindly pay your kind attention on this story:

A case story of two sisters, Sakshi and Kruti, who embarked on a life-changing fitness journey. To shed some weight for marriage purpose and embrace a healthier lifestyle, they both decided to join a local gym in the Mumbai city.

Sakshi was determined and set a lofty goal that she will do the exercise for at least 40 minutes and fast.” Kruti admired her sister’s enthusiasm. As they stepped onto the gym, Sakshi hopped on the treadmill, immediately cranking up the speed and incline, launching into a vigorous run. On the other side, Kruti, opted for a slower start. After half an hour of intense exercise, Kruti urged her to stop and rest, but Sakshi, driven by her goal, refused to relent. Kruti grew concerned about Sakshi who had turned pale and beads of sweat dripped from her forehead. She appeared exhausted. Just minutes later, Sakshi collapsed, losing consciousness before Kruti’s eyes. Kruti attempted to revive Sakshi. An ambulance was summoned immediately, and Sakshi was rushed to the hospital. In the hospital, doctor delivered the shocking news that Sakshi had suffered a heart attack and was in critical condition.

 Kruti, bewildered, “But how is that possible? Sakshi is too young for a heart attack, and she’s been eating healthy and exercising!” Doctor explained Kruti, “Yes, exercising can indeed improve heart health, but it must be done with caution and proper precautions. Overexertion, especially with excessive speed and intensity, can strain the heart. This strain can be particularly risky for those who have led a sedentary lifestyle and suddenly become active. People with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, a history of smoking, or a family history of heart problems must exercise with extra care.” He continued, “A US study reveals that about 16% of cardiac arrests occurs in sudden during intense exercise. Intense exercise can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and adrenaline levels, potentially causing plaque rupture or electrical disturbances in the heart.”

Kruti listened intently and realizing that they had underestimated the importance of proper guidance in their fitness journey. The doctor also emphasized that the symptoms of a heart attack could differ between men and women, with women often experiencing additional symptoms beyond chest pressure like nausea, vomiting, sweat, and pain in neck, jaw, left shoulder, throat, abdomen and back.

He furthermore suggested that, if one is planning to start an exercising routine, be sure to talk to your doctor and get your heart checked beforehand. Choose activities like jogging, brisk walking, swimming, cycling or yoga for 45 minutes per day as it is more beneficial than training for 2-3 hours. Exercise begins with 25 minutes and gradually increase to 45 minutes as this will help your body and heart adapt to the new routine. Stop exercising immediately if you experience chest pain or discomfort (angina), breathlessness, weakness, pain or disocomfort radiating to the arms, neck, jaw or back. Train according to your capacity and avoid pushing yourself to reach unrealistic targets.”

Kruti was determined to spread this newfound knowledge and ensure that others didn’t suffer the same fate. She expressed her gratitude to the doctor and headed back to Sakshi’s side with a sense of responsibility. After the recovery from this incident, they both decided to educate themselves further about safe exercise practices, consult with healthcare professionals, and undergo comprehensive health check-ups. They also vowed to share their experience to raise awareness about the risks of over exercising and the importance of starting any fitness journey with proper knowledge and precautions. Their story gained traction on social media, drawing the attention of others who had faced similar health scares. Together, they formed “HeartFit,” a support group focused on achieving a balanced and safe approach to fitness. Kruti and Sakshi’s story became a beacon of hope, not only for themselves but for countless others. Their journey from ignorance to advocacy was a testament to the transformative power of knowledge. Through HeartFit, they hoped to prevent others from experiencing the same health scare they had endured, ensuring that people could pursue their fitness goals safely and sustainably. Together, they had found a new purpose in helping others lead healthier lives.

It is important to remember that the risk of an exercise-induced heart attack is relatively low for most people, especially when compared to the overall health benefits of well-balanced routine or regular exercise. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms associated with heart attacks and to prioritize heart health by leading a healthy lifestyle and seeking medical advice when necessary.