Why Are Young People Having Heart Attacks in Gyms? AIIMS Expert Weighs in on Reasons, Here's How You Can Stay Safe

The alarming rise in heart attacks among young people—especially during or after gym workouts—has sparked serious concern across the country. Addressing this issue in a recent podcast with Vinay Vimarsh, AIIMS neurologist Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat, also known as the face of #SabkiSehat, shared crucial insights.

She emphasized that while intense or unsupervised gymming may contribute, it's far from the sole cause. Heart attacks in the young often result from a mix of factors including genetics, poor lifestyle choices, dehydration, steroid use, and more.

Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat Reveals Reasons for Heart Attack

In a recent podcast, Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat addressed the concerning surge in heart attack cases in India. Vinay Vimarsh, in his podcast clip, was seen asking her if there is any relation between excessive gymming and cardiac arrest. 

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Well, the question is relevant, as often people face a heart attack in the gym or right after the gym. However, the neurologist replies that there are multiple reasons involved in a heart attack.

From a genetic condition called cardiac arrhythmia to an unhealthy diet or addiction to smoking, alcohol, and drugs, all play their roles in increasing the chances of a heart attack. She also points out that working out in the gym without proper hydration and taking steroids can also increase the chances of cardiac arrest. 

Can Lifting Weights Lead to a Heart Attack?

So, blaming gym workouts for heart issues is not true. Under appropriate circumstances, exercise is not dangerous! Exercise is promoted to help develop and maintain a healthy heart. 

Vigorous activity: steroids increase the risk for sudden cardiac activity - besides that, don't worry! It is just essential not to overtrain if you have not consulted your physician. Also, do not disregard what your body is telling you. If you experience warning signs, like chest pain or shortness of breath, stop right there. 

How to Stay Safe from Heart Attacks?

To rule out the chances of a heart attack, early detection and prevention are key. Undergoing yearly heart checkups can help, especially if there is a family history.

Avoiding steroids and any such unverified supplements for muscle building is essential. Having a balanced diet with lots of leafy greens and protein can help you with muscle gains in a heart-healthy way. 

Taking a rest in between and drinking hydrating liquids can help recharge your body from extreme exhaustion. Following these safe practices, you can gradually increase your gym routine and train your heart. 

Fitness is impressive, but not worth losing your heart! Making the best decisions you can, listening to your physician, and maintaining moderation, along with staying active, can foster a body-building culture and, hopefully, a healthy heart as well. Yes, you can!

Are you a gym enthusiast? Let us know your gym say in the comments.