On 14/1, Doctor Nguyen Thang Nhat Tue, Head of the Emergency Department at Gia An 115 Hospital, stated that when the out-of-hospital emergency team arrived at the scene, the patient had no pulse, blood pressure, breathing, or SpO2, and despite extended cardiopulmonary resuscitation, he did not survive.

The patient's family reported a history of hypertension and dyslipidemia. He had played sports regularly for many years and did not smoke or consume alcohol.

115 medical staff attempted to resuscitate the patient on the practice court but were unsuccessful. *Photo: Provided by a doctor.*

According to Doctor Tue, sudden death can occur even in individuals who exercise regularly. Engaging in sports does not replace the need for regular health check-ups, particularly for those over 40 or with cardiovascular risk factors.

Sudden death during sports can stem from several factors, including underlying cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, or excessive strain on the heart during high-intensity exercise. Many instances of sudden death during strenuous activity are linked to undiagnosed or poorly managed cardiovascular conditions. Individuals with uncontrolled hypertension face a risk of blood pressure spikes during intense exercise, which can cause cerebral hemorrhage or a heart attack.

Recently, the medical community has noted a series of cardiac arrest incidents during sports. Late last month, a 32-year-old man experienced sudden severe chest pain, dizziness, and loss of consciousness after playing badminton but was fortunately saved. Previously, a 56-year-old male patient collapsed and was unresponsive while playing pickleball; despite 45 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation at the hospital, doctors could not save him.

Doctors advise individuals to select exercise types and intensities that match their physical condition, preventing overexertion. Those who engage in sports should have regular health check-ups to get personalized advice on diet and exercise, tailored to any medical conditions and their overall physical state. Should symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or an abnormally fast heartbeat arise, it is crucial to stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention.

Le Phuong