Why are People Having Heart Attacks While Exercising?
Going to the gym is often seen as the best way to stay fit and healthy. But nowadays, suffering from heart attacks has become really common. And, one of the most dangerous ways is to have a heart attack while exercising. It may sound very surprising, but it’s a reality that many people are unaware of.
In this blog, we will discuss what puts people at a high risk for a heart attack while exercising as well as effective steps to reduce the chances of having a heart attack while working out. The insights to draft this blog are taken from expert heart surgeons, one like Dr. Sujay Shad, the best cardiac surgeon in Delhi. Read on for more useful insights.
Who’s at Higher Risk of Having a Heart Attack? Heart attacks during exercise are more likely to occur in people with pre-existing cardiac problems. Overweight people, those with high blood pressure, and people with diabetes are all at higher risk than people without any of these illnesses. Heart attacks while exercising are more likely when there is a poor diet, smoking, and insufficient exercise.
Let’s discuss the factors that increase the risk of heart attack during physical activity in detail:
- Underlying Health Conditions: People who already have a cardiac problem such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, or arrhythmias are more likely to have a heart attack when exercising. When the heart is already compromised, the stress of physical activity can be difficult to handle.
- Strenuous Exercise: Engaging in high-intensity physical activities or gradually increasing the intensity can put strain on the heart, especially for those who are not used to exercising.
- Dehydration: Not getting enough fluids can increase the heart rate and reduce blood flow to the heart and other vital organs. This can be particularly difficult when exercising because the body requires extra fluids.
- Overexertion: Pushing oneself too hard during exercise can put stress on the heart and lead to a heart attack.
- Age and Fitness Level: Both age and general level of fitness can be important. Middle-aged and older people may be more at risk, especially if they lead inactive lifestyles.
- Family History: People who have a history of heart disease in their families are more likely to get heart attacks when exercising.
- Smoking and Other Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and a poor diet can increase the risk of heart attacks when exercising.
What Preventive Measures Can Be Taken to Reduce the Risk of Heart Attacks?
One can take the following steps to lessen the risk of experiencing a heart attack when working out at the gym:
- Stretching exercises are helpful as they help the body get ready for more intense physical exertion.
- Monitoring the physical condition and consulting with a doctor regularly will help identify potential issues.
- Try not to work out too much.
- Limit your caffeine intake before working out.
Additionally, it’s crucial to pay attention to the body; if one starts to feel fatigued or exhausted after only a short period of activity, stop and take a break.
Conclusion Staying healthy by practicing good habits such as eating well and following a healthy lifestyle will reduce the chances of a heart attack while working out in the gym. To learn more tips for having a healthy heart and to reduce the chances of a heart attack, book a consultation with an expert heart surgeon. One can consult Dr. Sujay Shad, a leading heart surgery specialist in Delhi, at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi.
