World Heart Day: What causes heart attacks while on Treadmills?

In recent times, there has been a troubling uptick in heart attacks among young individuals, with some occurring right in the midst of their gym workouts. The tragic demise of a young man who suffered a heart attack while on a treadmill recently caught global attention, sparking concerns about heart health during exercise. As the world prepares to observe World Heart Day on September 29th, Republic Digital spoke to Dr. Kala Jeethender Jain, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist from Yashoda Hospitals, to shed light on the reasons behind these treadmill-related heart attacks.

2 things you need to know

• Genetic factors and undiagnosed heart conditions increase treadmill risks.
• Dehydration and lack of warm-up strain the heart during workouts.

Unravelling the Causes

Dr. Jain points out several key factors that contribute to heart attacks during treadmill sessions. Genetic factors, particularly genes associated with a heightened risk of sudden cardiac death, can become triggered during strenuous activity. Additionally, underlying coronary artery disease that goes undiagnosed can lead to heart attacks during exertion. "Dehydration, often a result of overexertion, can also cause blood pressure to drop dangerously. Neglecting a proper warm-up routine before intense exercise can put excessive strain on the heart."

(Young Gym-Goers Facing a New Threat | Image: Shutterstock)

Identifying the Risk Factors

Specific risk factors make certain individuals more vulnerable to treadmill-induced heart attacks. The doctor highlights genetic channelopathies related to sodium and potassium channel ions, which can be triggered during exertion and lead to arrhythmias. Vulnerable plaques in the coronary arteries can rupture during strenuous exercise, causing myocardial infarction and sudden collapse.

Listening to Your Body

Dr. Jain emphasises that individuals should pay attention to warning signs and symptoms while exercising on a treadmill. If you experience chest pain, breathlessness, or palpitations, it's crucial to consult a cardiologist before engaging in strenuous activities like treadmill workouts. Your cardiologist's opinion should guide your exercise decisions.

Safety Tips for Treadmill Users

In honour of World Heart Day, Dr. Jain offers practical advice for treadmill users to ensure they exercise safely and reduce the risk of heart-related incidents. Always get your heart evaluated by a trusted cardiologist and undergo relevant tests before committing to strenuous activities. Taking these precautions can go a long way in preserving your heart health and allowing you to enjoy the benefits of regular exercise without unnecessary risks. On this World Heart Day, let's prioritise our cardiovascular health and exercise responsibly to keep our hearts strong and beating.