Sudden death while running: Doctors advise on prevention.

Many unfortunate cases have resulted in immediate death, causing concern and raising questions about the potential risk factors for this incident. Below, Dr. James P. Daubert, a sports cardiologist at Duke University (USA), will explain the reasons why and how to prevent it, giving you peace of mind while running.

Sudden death while jogging: Doctors advise on prevention - Image 1.

Most cases of sudden cardiac death in young athletes are due to undiagnosed and rare heart conditions - Illustration: AI

What could explain such cases of sudden death?

Sudden death in healthy, fit athletes may be due to an underlying cardiovascular problem combined with strenuous physical activity.

Most cases of sudden cardiac death in young athletes are due to undiagnosed and rare heart conditions. These are underlying genetic heart diseases or those caused by gene mutations, including:

Cardiac disorders, such as abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, are often hereditary.
The second most common inherited heart disease is an electrocardiogram (ECG) problem, such as an irregular heartbeat or rare conditions like long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia.
Myocarditis weakens the heart muscle.
Some congenital heart conditions—birth defects—can cause sudden cardiac arrest, such as congenital abnormalities of the coronary arteries that block blood flow to the heart, according to the health news site Health Xchange.

The doctor said: If stimulated by a triggering agent, all four of the above cases can cause the heart to stop beating suddenly.

What should you do to prevent sudden death while running?

There are several things you can do to minimize the risk of sudden death while running.

Regular screening is recommended. Regular health checkups are advised before starting a running program and annually thereafter. It's also important to inquire about your family history, especially if there's a family history of heart disease or a family history of sudden death before age 50, as hereditary heart disease can be a risk factor.

Dr. Daubert says: People with signs, symptoms, or a known or potential family history of certain heart conditions should get additional testing. This testing may include an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, MRI, or cardiac monitor. A stress test may also be needed, according to the Duke University School of Medicine website - Duke Health.

Recognize worrisome symptoms.

Dr. Daubert explains: In many cases, there are few or no warning signs of sudden cardiac death in young athletes. However, if chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, excessive fatigue, or dizziness and fainting occur, especially during training, they should be carefully evaluated before participating in a race because these symptoms may signal a heart problem.

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Drink plenty of water because dehydration can put stress on the heart - Photo: AI

Practice correctly

The timing and method of exercise should be gradual to allow the body to adapt. Warm up and cool down properly before exercising. Drink plenty of water, as dehydration can put stress on the heart. Don't push yourself too hard, especially when starting a new exercise program or after a period of inactivity.

Prepare for emergencies.

Even with all the appropriate precautions, sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes can still occur in rare cases. Consider taking cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training and using a defibrillator to prepare for emergencies.

Ideally, the running location should be equipped with an automatic defibrillator (AED) and personnel trained to operate it, capable of diagnosing and treating dangerous heart rhythm disorders.

Knowing how to quickly contact emergency services in case of a medical emergency.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of sudden death while running and enjoy a safe and healthy running experience.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/dot-tu-trong-khi-chay-bo-bac-si-chi-cach-ngan-ngua-185250806223427795.htm