How to ensure safety when conquering Marathon?

Marathon is a healthy sports activity. However, if you do not pay attention to the following things, it is very likely to cause harm to the body.

Causes of cardiac arrest during vigorous exercise

When exercising vigorously, our heart will undergo significant changes such as:

• Increased heart rate: like a fueled machine, the heart begins to beat faster to pump more blood to meet the increased oxygen needs of working muscles.
• Increased blood pressure: Along with heart rate, blood pressure also increases, helping to effectively push blood throughout the body.
• Cardiac electrical activity changes: Cardiac muscle cells continuously create small electrical impulses to regulate heart rhythm. However, during vigorous exercise, the heart's electrical activity can change, leading to the risk of arrhythmia.
• Hormone levels change: Certain hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol are released during exercise, affecting heart rate and blood pressure.
• Increased body temperature: When the body is active, the temperature will increase, requiring the heart to work harder to regulate body temperature.

These changes are completely normal and necessary for the body to adapt to physical activity. However, in some people, especially those with underlying medical conditions, these changes can lead to serious health problems.

Cardiac arrest while running a Marathon can stem from the following factors:

• Underlying heart disease: this is the leading cause of cardiac arrest in Marathon runners. According to a study published in the journal Heart, more than 80% of cardiac arrests during Marathon were caused by underlying heart disease, including coronary heart disease, valvular heart disease, or cardiomyopathy.
• Arrhythmia : some people may have arrhythmia even without heart disease. These arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, can lead to cardiac arrest during strenuous exercise.
• Dehydration and electrolytes: When running a Marathon, the body loses a lot of water and electrolytes through sweat. Dehydration and electrolyte loss can affect the heart's electrical activity, leading to arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. A study published in the European Heart Journal showed that dehydration and electrolyte loss can increase the risk of cardiac arrest in Marathon athletes by up to 5 times.
• Heatstroke : Heatstroke can cause many serious health problems, including cardiac arrest. During heatstroke, the body cannot regulate its temperature, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure and the risk of cardiac arrest.
• Stimulant use : Use of certain stimulants, such as cocaine or amphetamines, can increase heart rate and blood pressure, leading to cardiac arrest. Stimulant use can increase the risk of cardiac arrest in Marathon runners by up to 10 times.

Stimulant use may increase the risk of cardiac arrest in Marathon runners. (Illustration).

Notes when running a Marathon to protect your health

• Comprehensive health check : this is a prerequisite step to help detect potential heart diseases early - the leading cause of cardiac arrest during Marathon running. You should have a medical examination at least 6 weeks before competing.
• Exercise scientifically : exercise fully and gradually increase intensity over time so that the body adapts to strenuous activity. Marathon runners need to train for at least 12 weeks, with a total distance of up to 300km. Consult experts to develop a suitable exercise program.
• Supplement water and electrolytes: drink enough water and electrolyte solutions to avoid dehydration and electrolyte loss, which affects the electrical activity of the heart. Pay attention to weather conditions: avoid running the Marathon when it is hot or humid. You should choose a cool time to run, use appropriate clothing and wear a sun hat.
• Listen to your body: recognize warning signs of cardiac arrest such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness. Stop running immediately and seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Avoid stimulants : do not use cocaine or amphetamines before or during a Marathon because they can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
• Use health monitoring devices: monitor heart rate and other health parameters to detect early signs of abnormalities. Participate in a first aid class: equip yourself with first aid knowledge and skills to save yourself or others in case of cardiac arrest.
• Comply with regulations : always comply with the regulations and instructions of the Marathon organizers to ensure safety for yourself and those around you.

Conquering Marathon is a challenging but also extremely meaningful journey. By taking effective precautions and following safety guidelines, you can minimize the risk of cardiac arrest and safely enjoy the full Marathon experience.