Recognizing the risk of cardiovascular events while running.

At a recent race, with only about 10 meters to the finish line, a participant suddenly collapsed, turned blue, and suffered cardiac arrest. Fortunately, he received immediate CPR and his life was saved.

Regarding cardiovascular events during running, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan, Director of the A9 Emergency Center at Bach Mai Hospital ( Hanoi ), said: Sudden cardiac arrest can absolutely occur, even in seemingly healthy individuals, without any warning signs. The causes could include: undiagnosed heart disease; excessive exertion; a day of insufficient sleep; or simply extremely hot weather. The most frightening thing is that the body doesn't always give warnings about these risks.

The most important thing isn't how fast you finish, but returning safely after each run.

PHOTO: PHUONG AN CREATED BY GEMINI

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan advises: "Participants in the run should pay special attention to warning signs including dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, extreme fatigue, or confusion. When these symptoms appear, stop exercising immediately and seek medical assistance."

In the event of cardiac arrest, initial emergency care is crucial. When the heart stops beating, brain damage can begin within 4-6 minutes if blood supply is not provided. Therefore, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) should be initiated as soon as possible. Timely intervention can significantly improve the patient's chances of survival.

According to the A9 Emergency Center at Bach Mai Hospital, cardiac arrest during sports is not uncommon, especially given the booming running movement where many people lack sufficient safety knowledge.

Running is an effective form of exercise, but acute cardiovascular events, especially sudden cardiac arrest, can still occur, even in people without prior symptoms. This risk increases with overexertion, dehydration, lack of sleep, or exercising in hot weather. Therefore, if you experience dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or extreme fatigue while running, don't push yourself, don't "push a little further," because there are limits you shouldn't exceed. Running is good, but the most important thing isn't how fast you finish, but "returning safely after each run."

Summer is a time for many sporting activities. Experts recommend that participants in running competitions should have a health check-up before competing, especially those over 35 or with underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or diabetes. In addition, it's important to get enough sleep, drink enough water, adjust training intensity during hot weather, and avoid stimulants. Most importantly, listen to your body and don't push yourself beyond your safe limits.

In particular, disseminating knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) within the community will contribute to improving the ability to save patients' lives at the scene.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nhan-biet-nguy-co-bien-co-tim-mach-khi-chay-bo-185260525194553516.htm