Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Designed by: Manoj Kumar
During the Delhi Half Marathon, 51-year-old Asheesh Kumar Garg suffered a heart attack just 50 meters from the finish line, collapsing and becoming unresponsive. Though CPR revived him in the medical base camp's ICU, he later succumbed to a second cardiac arrest in a nearby hospital.
Cardiac-related deaths are on the rise in various settings, from gyms to concerts and even while driving. This trend has made many people cautious about intense exercise. Running, typically considered heart-healthy, poses a minimal risk of heart attacks, but hidden factors can lead to collapses during marathons.
Dr. Neeraj Jain, Director of Internal Cardiology at Metro Hospital, Faridabad, highlighted that the runner's tragic death is influenced by various factors, including individual health, medical history, and pre-existing conditions. While running is generally safe, he underscored the need for runners to be aware of their health status, take precautions, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience unusual symptoms. According to Jain, here is a list of vital precautions to ensure safe long-distance running.
While engaging in long-distance running, pay attention to your body's signals. If you experience light-headedness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or any discomfort, contact a medical professional immediately.
Understand your family's medical history, particularly any occurrences of sudden cardiac deaths. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and share relevant details with your doctor.
Maintain healthy cholesterol levels to keep your heart arteries clear. If your physician prescribes statins to reduce cholesterol, adhere to the prescription.
Initiate your run with a suitable warm-up and conclude it with an appropriate cool-down routine. This practice supports heart health and minimizes strain.
Before commencing a long-distance running program, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have pre-existing heart conditions or risk factors. Their guidance and assessments are crucial.
If you're new to running, start with shorter distances and progressively increase your mileage. This approach helps your body adapt and decreases the risk of injury.
Stay well-hydrated by consuming sufficient water before, during, and after your run, particularly in hot or humid conditions.
Track your heart rate during runs with the assistance of a heart rate monitor. This practice helps you stay within a safe exertion zone, preventing overexertion.
Be attuned to your body's signals. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or unusual symptoms, halt your run and seek immediate medical attention.
Incorporate diverse exercises like strength training and flexibility routines into your training. This holistic approach enhances fitness and reduces the risk of overuse injuries.