In an interview with our reporter on October 21, ThS-BS Nguyen Tien Loc from the Orthopedic Trauma Department at Xuyen A General Hospital stated that individuals with a history of conditions such as dyslipidemia, obesity, or previous strokes have a higher risk when engaging in sports.
During training, it is essential to allow the body time to adapt to the conditions and intensity of the workout to ensure safety during exercise. (Illustrative image).
Additionally, other factors may contribute to this condition, such as an unhealthy diet (consuming organ meats, high-fat foods) and unscientific lifestyle habits.
According to Dr. Loc, there are two primary causes of strokes in individuals participating in high-intensity sports: atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels and electrolyte imbalances. “Atherosclerotic plaques can form in arteries due to dyslipidemia. Therefore, during high-intensity exercise, blood vessels operate faster, potentially causing these plaques to rupture. At that moment, the plaques can move within the bloodstream. If they stop at any point, they can cause blockages, potentially in the heart or brain, leading to a stroke.” – Dr. Loc explained.
Regarding electrolyte imbalances, high-intensity workouts result in excessive sweating and dehydration. It is essential to replenish electrolytes rather than drinking plain water, which could lead to organ swelling, creating a dangerous situation. “In fact, there have been many cases of fainting or strokes during running events due to electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, it is crucial to be equipped with knowledge when participating to ensure personal health safety.” – Dr. Loc emphasized.
Dr. Loc advises that when exercising, it is essential to set realistic goals, start slowly, and gradually increase intensity. This approach allows the body to adapt to the conditions and intensity of the workout, ensuring safety during exercise. Furthermore, routine health check-ups are vital, especially blood tests to monitor lipid levels. If lipid levels are high, it is advisable to limit high-intensity workouts as this could increase the risk of plaque rupture.