Years of high-intensity exercise can have unforeseen consequences. heart risks For male endurance athletes over the age of 50, according to new research from the University of Leeds.
The study, published earlier this month in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, found that some endurance athletes over the age of 50 experience potentially dangerous heart rhythm disturbances during or immediately after exercise, especially those with scarring in the heart muscle.
New study reveals hidden heart changes may be caused by exercise
Researchers tracked 106 healthy male runners and cyclists using wearable activity trackers and implanted heart monitors.
Approximately 1 in 4 people experience ventricular tachycardia. This ventricular tachycardia is a rapid heart rhythm that can be life-threatening if sustained. Three out of four athletes who experienced such an episode had evidence of myocardial scarring.
“Our study shows that exercise is only associated with the risk of developing abnormal heart rhythms in people who are already at high risk due to heart scarring,” said lead author Wasim Javed.
Researchers note that approximately 90% of exercise-related sudden cardiac deaths occur due to symptoms such as: Men over 40 years oldoften there are no warning signs.
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According to the American Heart Association, regular physical activity, even 30 minutes most days, can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Cardiologists at the Cleveland Clinic also say that exercise strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and supports overall cardiovascular health.
The findings suggest that; long term endurance training Although it can be risky for some older athletes, exercise itself is still overwhelmingly beneficial.
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“Athletes who developed abnormal heart rhythms were exercising less and exercising less strenuously than athletes without abnormal heart rhythms,” Javed said.
“This suggests that exercise itself is not the cause, but may act as a trigger for dangerous heart rhythms in athletes who already have heart problems.”
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researchers say older male athletePeople with a long competitive history, especially, should consider regular cardiovascular tests and talk to their doctor about symptoms such as unexplained dizziness, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath. Wearable heart monitoring devices may also help detect irregular rhythms early.
“Exercise is safe and has tremendous benefits, but this group of athletes Regular health checkup So that they can stay healthy,” Javed said.
