The hum of the treadmill, the clang of weights, the rhythmic beat of workout music – the gym is a sanctuary for many, a place to push boundaries and sculpt a healthier self. But sometimes, amidst the pursuit of physical excellence, a chilling thought surfaces, can the very place we go to strengthen our hearts become a stage for its sudden failure? The idea of a heart attack in the gym, a place of health and vitality, is a stark reminder that even in our most vigorous moments, our bodies warrant careful attention.
Age, gender, lifestyle, and availability of treatment are some of the factors that affect the prevalence of heart attacks, which are a major global health concern. Exercise-induced heart attacks are uncommon yet dangerous. Overall, though, exercise is good for heart health. Exertional myocardial infarctions (MI), another name for exercise-induced heart attacks, can happen during or soon after physical exertion, such as vigorous exercise or physical activity. Reduced blood supply to the heart muscle causes these occurrences, and a blocked artery may cause damage or even death to the heart muscle cells.
Who are the victims?
According to Dr. Tanmai Yermal (Jain), Consultant – Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, “Those with a history of smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease should exercise extra caution while working out. One must be careful not to overdo it or work out too quickly when working out. Exercise done mindlessly might strain the heart. A heart attack can thus occur from performing any activity for an extended period, lifting too much weight, running continuously, or completing too many repetitions. Also, this occurs when someone who hasn’t been active since infancy suddenly starts an activity without understanding their degree of fitness.”
Why your heart might exhaust during a workout
Although it has been proven that regular exercise can improve heart health, the percentage of heart attacks that occur during exercise is rapidly increasing in men over 45, raising the possibility that excessive exercise may increase the risk of heart issues.
Occasionally, if a person might already have a previously undiagnosed heart problem, if the arteries have a little congestion accumulated in them, if the heartbeats begin to rise suddenly, if one is seriously dehydrated, or if someone is generally overexerting themselves, their heart might get into a bind.
What you need to know while working out
According to Dr. Satish Sawant, Consultant – Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune, “Listen to the body’s response. If someone experiences chestpain, trouble in breathing, feeling dizzy, or lightheaded, it is calling for a pause. Find out if heart issues are in the family or if one has high blood pressure or cholesterol. If it is concerned, speak with the doctor before beginning a new exercise. Warm up prior to starting, cool down afterwards. Stay hydrated with plenty of water.”
How to protect your heart at the gym
If one has any risk factors, check out before exercising.
Gradually slow the way when gearing up, how much effort is being put in.
Wear a heart rate monitor so don’t overdo things.
Learn the proper form in doing the exercises.
Rest after workouts
Do not take any bizarre pills and powders that make you go all pumped up and possibly learn CPR— just in case.
What to do if things go wrong
If someone appears to be having a heart attack, call the ambulance immediately. If you are trained in CPR, administer it. Working out is good for health, but everyone must be smart about it.
It is important to keep in mind that most people have a comparatively low chance of having a heart attack as an outcome of exercise, particularly when weighed against the general health advantages of regular exercise or a well-balanced routine. But it’s important to prioritize heart health by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting medical help when needed, as well as to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms linked to heart attacks.