Is exercise putting your heart at risk? The answer may surprise you

             Written by: Dr. Subita Alagh

29 July 2025

A 25-year-old collapsed during a badminton match in Hyderabad. His sudden death shocked many, and spotlighted the silent danger of cardiac arrest in young, active people.

When a Fit Heart Fails Suddenly

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It happens when the heart stops beating due to an irregular rhythm. Without immediate help, brain and organ shutdown occurs within minutes.

What Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

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 Even athletes may have underlying heart issues. Vigorous activity can unmask silent problems, especially without regular heart checkups.

Fit Doesn’t Always Mean Safe

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Intense training may enlarge or thicken the heart muscle. This can trigger dangerous arrhythmias during sudden bursts of activity.

Athlete’s Heart – A Risk in Disguise

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Yes. Thickened blood from dehydration strains the heart and increases the risk of clots, strokes, and sudden cardiac arrest.

Is Dehydration to Blame?

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Conditions like Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy or stress cardiomyopathy can silently weaken the heart’s ability to pump during exertion.

Hidden Heart Conditions

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Yes. Mandatory ECG and echo tests for athletes, AEDs in gyms and public places, and CPR training for all can save lives.

Can We Prevent Such Deaths?

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A heart can stop anytime, anywhere. Awareness, preparedness, and quick action can mean the difference between life and death.

Get Yourself Screened

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