Heart attack, heart failure risk: 4 symptoms athletes, bodybuilders should never ignore

Staying fit and active is vital for overall well-being, but gymgoers should not ignore unusual signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, or unexplained fatigue. (Image: Canva)

While exercise is essential for maintaining heart health, it’s equally crucial to recognise that some signs of underlying heart conditions can be mistaken for simple workout fatigue or exertion. Regular gym-goers, athletes, or even those engaging in moderate physical activity need to be vigilant about the signals their body sends. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to severe health risks, including heart attacks or heart failure. The body often gives warnings when the heart is struggling to cope with the demands placed upon it, and these signs should never be brushed aside.

Dr Nityanand Tripathi, Senior Director and Head of Cardiology and Electrophysiology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, emphasises that identifying these symptoms early can significantly reduce the risk of life-threatening conditions. Let’s take a closer look at the hidden signs of cardiac ailments that gymgoers should never ignore.

Unusual chest pain

Chest pain during exercise is often attributed to muscle strain, but persistent, sharp pain should not be overlooked. If the pain occurs during or after physical exertion and feels like squeezing or burning, it may indicate angina—a condition that reflects reduced blood flow to the heart. Unlike typical muscle soreness, heart-related chest pain can spread to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. If the pain worsens with activity, it could be a warning sign of a heart attack. Immediate medical attention is crucial if chest pain escalates or persists, especially when combined with other symptoms.

Shortness of breath

While feeling out of breath is normal after intense exercise, persistent or unusual shortness of breath during light activities or exercises you could previously handle should raise concerns. This could signal the heart's inability to pump blood efficiently, depriving your body of oxygen. If shortness of breath accompanies chest pain, dizziness, or fatigue, it may indicate heart failure or another serious cardiovascular condition. These symptoms should prompt an immediate consultation with a healthcare professional.

Irregular heartbeats (palpitations)

A racing or irregular heartbeat is common during physical exertion, but palpitations that feel abnormal—such as your heart skipping beats or pounding uncontrollably—could indicate a heart rhythm disorder like arrhythmia. While it’s normal for heart rates to increase during exercise (up to 150 beats per minute in young people), irregular or excessively rapid heartbeats could be a sign of atrial fibrillation or other heart rhythm abnormalities. If your heart rate remains irregular or unusually rapid without apparent cause, seeking medical advice is essential.

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Unexplained fatigue

Fatigue is normal after a tough workout, but if you feel overly tired even after resting, it could point to a heart problem. In cases of heart disease, the heart struggles to pump enough blood to deliver oxygen to the muscles, leading to persistent exhaustion. If you notice unexplained fatigue, especially when combined with other symptoms like swelling or dizziness, it’s time to consult a doctor. Persistent fatigue can indicate a serious underlying heart issue.

Staying fit and active is vital for overall well-being, but gymgoers should not ignore unusual signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, or unexplained fatigue. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can prevent major complications and ensure long-term heart health.