Recently, there have been many cases of young people suddenly experiencing strokes while playing sports, even without a prior history of specific medical conditions. Doctor Nguyen Huy Hoang of the Vietnam Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Association states that sports requiring sudden, high-intensity exertion, such as cold water swimming, sprinting, outdoor high-intensity interval training (HIIT), intense football, basketball, or pickleball, carry more risks because they overwork the heart.
Additionally, when temperatures drop, blood vessels constrict to conserve heat for the heart and brain, increasing blood pressure and forcing the heart to pump faster and harder. Cold weather also causes the body to lose water rapidly through breath and evaporating sweat, while the sensation of thirst diminishes. This makes blood thicker and more prone to clot formation, raising the risk of stroke.
 |
After intense exercise, you should rest, drink electrolyte-rich water, and avoid cold showers or alcohol. *Photo: Gorillabow*
The doctor advises against several habits that can trigger a stroke after playing sports:
Taking a cold shower immediately after strenuous exercise, especially at night or in cold weather, is risky. After exertion, blood vessels are dilated to release heat. Sudden exposure to cold water causes a systemic vasoconstriction reflex, pushing blood towards the core. This leads to a sharp increase in blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder. Prolonged standing, bending over, or sudden changes in posture while showering can also alter blood flow returning to the heart. Some individuals may experience dizziness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, or chest pain, potentially leading to fainting or falls.
Therefore, the combination of cold air, cold water, and sudden changes in posture poses a threat to blood vessels and the heart. This can trigger acute myocardial ischemia or arrhythmias, a leading cause of sudden death during showering.
After strenuous exercise, the body is dehydrated from sweating. Consuming alcohol can further thicken the blood, increasing its viscosity and making it more prone to clot formation. In some individuals, heavy drinking over a short period can trigger transient atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), forming blood clots in the heart chambers that can then travel to the brain.
Moreover, alcohol forces the liver and kidneys to work harder to process harmful substances in these drinks. When the body is already fatigued after exercise, the liver and kidneys must actively eliminate alcohol and other toxins, putting significant strain on internal organs. Instead, you should drink coconut water, watermelon juice, or eat mangoes, oranges, and pears to replenish electrolytes and recover faster. Avoid overusing energy drinks, which contain high levels of caffeine and and can elevate heart rate, increase blood pressure, and cause cerebral vasoconstriction.
If you suddenly experience dizziness, disorientation, unsteady gait, weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or slurred speech while exercising, stop immediately. Help the individual lie down or sit safely, and call for emergency medical assistance. Wear warm clothing immediately after finishing your workout. Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration. Prioritize exercising in sheltered, wind-protected areas. Monitor air quality index before training.
Thuy An
