Did you know that going from 0-100 on your workouts can cause a medical emergency like a stroke?
Every second counts when it comes to recognizing and responding to a stroke. In this crucial video above, we discuss the telltale signs that someone might be experiencing a stroke and, more importantly, how YOU can be the first responder before 911 arrives!
And while strokes are one of the worst-case-scenarios, they definitely aren’t the only medical emergencies that can occur when you start a new exercise routine.
At Golden State CPR, we want your fitness journey to be successful and safe. In this article, we’ll explore some of the medical conditions that may be exacerbated by increased activity. We also provide essential first aid techniques to handle these medical emergencies.
Intense exercise may trigger asthma symptoms, leading to difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing.
First Aid Techniques: Help the person use their prescribed inhaler. Encourage them to rest in a comfortable position and seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Intensified physical activity, especially in combination with inadequate fluid intake, can lead to dehydration, causing weakness, dizziness, and confusion.
First Aid Techniques: Encourage the person to drink water slowly, in small sips. Move them to a cool, shaded area and have them rest. In severe cases, seek medical attention promptly.
Sudden increases in physical activity can affect blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in individuals with diabetes.
First Aid Techniques: If someone with diabetes exhibits signs of hypoglycemia (shakiness, confusion, sweating), provide them with a fast-acting source of sugar, such as fruit juice or glucose tablets. If the person loses consciousness, administer glucagon (if available) or call for emergency assistance and begin CPR if necessary.
Intense physical activity can strain the heart, particularly for those unaccustomed to regular exercise, increasing the risk of a heart attack.
First Aid Techniques: If someone shows signs of a heart attack (chest pain, shortness of breath, discomfort in the upper body), call emergency services immediately. Have the person sit down, keep them calm, and administer aspirin if available. Perform CPR if the person becomes unresponsive. Click here to watch our video on how to perform Hands Only CPR.
Overexertion in hot environments (like inside a crowded gym!) can result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and fainting.
First Aid Techniques: Move the person to a cooler place, provide water, encourage rest, use cool compresses, and fan them if possible. Seek medical help if symptoms persist or worsen.
Sudden and intense exercise may lead to a hypertensive crisis in individuals with high blood pressure, causing severe headaches, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
First Aid Techniques: Call for emergency assistance. Keep the person calm, encourage them to sit comfortably, administer prescribed medication if available, and monitor vital signs. Stay with the person until help arrives.
Sudden, intense physical activity without proper warm-up can increase the risk of muscle strains and sprains. Bone breaks and joint injuries can also occur.
First Aid Techniques: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.) can help alleviate pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be useful. Seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Vigorous exercise may raise blood pressure, potentially triggering a stroke in individuals with underlying cardiovascular issues.
First Aid Techniques: As discussed in our video above, it’s important to identify stroke symptoms (facial drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech), and call for help as quickly as possible. Keep the person calm, note the time when symptoms began, and perform CPR if the person loses consciousness until medical professionals arrive.
Remember, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen is always a good idea. Listen to your body and prioritize safety. Achieving your goal can be a sustainable and positive experience.
Golden State CPR is here to help you. Our comprehensive CPR and first aid training programs are designed to equip you with the skills to confidently handle medical emergencies. Trust us for all your first aid supplies and training needs. Make safety an integral part of your fitness adventure.
We offer classroom & online courses and onsite training for large groups.
This website is not intended to be medical services. If you have a medical emergency, go to the emergency room of a local hospital or dial 911 immediately.