What are the main causes of exercise-related sudden death?

Sudden cardiac death during exercise refers to a sudden death event that occurs during physical activity, usually caused by cardiac problems. In general, it may be triggered by factors such as excessive exertion, arrhythmia, drug or stimulant abuse, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Targeted treatments and preventive measures are required for different causes, and it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Excessive exertion: This may result from prolonged intense physical activity, which can increase myocardial oxygen consumption and lead to severe myocardial ischemia, potentially causing sudden cardiac death during exercise. Symptoms may include fatigue and weakness. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be used as emergency treatment.

2. Arrhythmia: Abnormal electrical conduction in the heart can lead to cardiac arrest. Ventricular fibrillation is a severe form of arrhythmia that prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood, resulting in sudden cardiac death. It may be accompanied by loss of consciousness, absence of a palpable pulse, and rapid breathing. Immediate CPR should be initiated, along with defibrillation using an automated external defibrillator (AED), and professional medical assistance should be sought urgently.

3. Drug or stimulant abuse: Misuse of certain drugs or stimulants may overload the heart, leading to arrhythmias or acute myocardial infarction, thereby causing sudden cardiac death during exercise. Symptoms may include palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, and loss of consciousness. Emergency medical intervention at a qualified hospital is necessary, including symptomatic and supportive treatments.

4. Coronary atherosclerotic heart disease: Insufficient blood supply due to coronary artery disease can lead to acute myocardial infarction, triggering sudden death. Symptoms may include severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating. Immediate medical attention is essential; procedures such as coronary stenting or coronary artery bypass surgery may be required at a proper medical facility.

5. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: This condition causes myocardial ischemia, and when ischemia worsens, it may lead to heart failure and subsequently cause sudden cardiac death during exercise. There may be no warning signs, or symptoms such as fainting or palpitations may occur. Patients should promptly seek care at a qualified hospital to manage underlying heart conditions; in some cases, implantation of a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator may be necessary.

The key to preventing sudden cardiac death during exercise lies in regular physical examinations to detect potential heart problems early, as well as appropriate pre-exercise health screening. Additionally, prompt emergency medical interventions, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and use of automated external defibrillators are critical life-saving measures.