The heart is an important organ that pumps blood to every part of the body. When we exercise, the heart accelerates its rhythm to accommodate the increased demand for oxygen. This is a normal mechanism. But if you feel palpitations, a fast or irregular heartbeat during or after exercise, it may not be just fatigue, but a sign of an “ arrhythmia ” that should be seriously diagnosed.
What is arrhythmia?
Arrhythmias are conditions in which the electrical system in the heart that controls the rhythm of the heart muscle does not work properly, causing the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. สนใจสมัคร? คลิกที่นี่เพื่อเริ่มต้น These symptoms can occur occasionally or continuously, depending on the cause and severity of the condition.
What causes arrhythmias during exercise?
If the body is not ready, strenuous exercise may stimulate the heart to respond beyond its proper level. Although under normal circumstances the heart will adjust its rhythm to beat faster according to the body’s needs, sometimes the electrical system within the heart may malfunction, resulting in an arrhythmia. Common causes include:
- Exercising too hard beyond your fitness level
- The body lacks water or minerals such as sodium or potassium.
- Not getting enough sleep
- Have accumulated stress or anxiety
- Consuming large amounts of caffeine or energy drinks
- Have underlying heart disease, such as heart muscle disease, ischemic heart disease, or heart valve leakage.
If you have these symptoms along with an arrhythmia, you should seek further diagnostic tests.
- Palpitations or a noticeable rapid heart rate, even with light exercise
- Feeling unusually tired, not related to exercise level
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Temporarily unconscious
Diagnostic guidelines
Heart examination in people with arrhythmias during exercise. The doctor may choose to use one or a combination of methods, including:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) to detect abnormalities in the heart’s electrical activity.
- Exercise Stress Test (EST) to assess heart function during exercise
- 24-48 hour Holter Monitor to detect abnormalities for those with intermittent arrhythmias.
- Blood tests to assess electrolyte levels or other factors that may affect your heart.
Preventing arrhythmias during exercise
Although some types of arrhythmias cannot be completely prevented, we can greatly reduce our risk by taking care of our health in all aspects. Start by choosing exercises that are appropriate for your fitness level and gradually increase the intensity of your exercise. Stay hydrated, especially if exercising in hot weather. Avoid consuming caffeine or energy drinks before every exercise session.
In addition, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and having regular annual health check-ups are also important factors, especially for those with chronic diseases or a family history of heart disease. These all help reduce the risk and build confidence in exercising safely.