8 Signals Your Body Is Giving You To Stay Off the Treadmill

8 Signals Your Body Is Giving You To Stay Off the Treadmill

Regular exercise and an active lifestyle are considered heart-healthy habits, but going overboard with workouts can be detrimental. The recent case of a young man losing his life after having a heart attack in the gym has brought to focus the adverse effects of overexercising. 

Additionally, it raises the question of whether one may take precautions to avoid having a heart attack by recognizing the early warning signals of cardiac disease. According to experts, you should refrain from using the treadmill that day if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms: lightheadedness, chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea, exhaustion, or weakness.

“Young folks usually visit the gym. So, if you are having palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatiguability, these are the symptoms and signs a person is having at intervals, not on a regular basis, so first, he should get his cardiovascular system checked up, then only he should go for any treadmill, or gym, or external exercise. Similarly, at an advanced age, particularly after 40-45 years, if somebody is having heaviness or tightness in the chest or shoulder or back during exertion, during walking, or some uneasiness in the chest, these are the signs that one should not ignore and should get his cardiac evaluation done, then only he could go for the gym or treadmill,” Dr. Bhupendra Singh, a consultant cardiologist at Manipal Hospital in Ghaziabad, states.

“Second, individuals who have diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of coronary artery disease are at an increased risk of developing a blockage or any kind of coronary artery disease. They hence require routine checkups. Therefore, if you are at high risk, even a minor or sporadic indication or symptom of what I have just described shouldn’t be disregarded. Instead, you should get evaluated first, then go to the gym or use a treadmill with the advice and supervision of your cardiologist or doctor. Therefore, if someone exhibits these symptoms, they should avoid the gym and the treadmill, says Dr. Singh.

“Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, and treadmills are a popular choice for those looking to improve their cardiovascular fitness. However, it’s equally important to pay attention to your body signals during exercise, as pushing too hard without recognizing warning signs can have serious consequences, including the risk of cardiac arrest. Let’s talk about how to exercise properly and the symptoms your body could be giving you to avoid running too fast on the treadmill, says Dr. Debashish Chanda, an orthopedics and joint replacement specialist at the CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram.

Warning Signs to Heed

1. Chest Pain or Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort when exercising is one of the most important warning symptoms. While a slight burning feeling in the chest during an exercise might be acceptable, severe or persistent pain can be a sign of trouble. The arms, neck, jaw, or back may also experience a radiating ache. It’s crucial to seek quick medical assistance if any chest discomfort persists and to not ignore it.

2. Shortness of Breath

Feeling short of breath during exercise is common, especially if you’re pushing yourself. However, if you suddenly or severely lose your ability to breathe, this might be a warning sign. This could be due to an underlying heart problem, so it’s important to stop exercising and consult a healthcare professional.

3. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

While using the treadmill, if you have lightheadedness or dizziness, it may be a sign of circulation or blood pressure problems. These signs shouldn’t be ignored because they might be the precursor of injury-causing fainting or falls.

4. Irregular Heartbeat or Palpitations

An irregular heartbeat, known as arrhythmia, can be a serious concern during exercise. Stop immediately and seek medical help if you notice your heart is beating or fluttering uncontrollably. Monitoring your heart rate during exercise can help you identify abnormalities.

5. Nausea or Vomiting

An indication of overexertion during an exercise could be severe nausea or vomiting. Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities might result from this, which can be extremely harmful to your heart. Rest and rehydrate are essential if your nausea is persistent.

6. Extreme Fatigue

Although feeling worn out after a strenuous treadmill session is common, experiencing severe weariness or weakness when exercising might be a red flag. This can be a sign that your heart isn’t pumping blood efficiently.

7. Cold Sweats

A cardiac condition may be indicated by sudden cold sweats, especially if they are present together with other symptoms like chest discomfort or shortness of breath. Don’t ignore these symptoms; immediately seek medical attention.

8. Pain or Discomfort in Other Body Parts

Along with chest pain, any unexpected pain or discomfort experienced when exercising in the arms, neck, jaw, or back should be treated carefully. These symptoms shouldn’t be disregarded because they may occasionally be a sign of cardiac problems.

Conclusion

“Exercise is undoubtedly beneficial for your overall health, but it’s equally important to prioritize safety. Your body provides warning signs for a reason – to protect you from harm. Stop using the treadmill right now and get medical help if you see any of these warning signals. Remember that regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help identify any underlying issues and guide you in exercising safely. Your health is your most valuable asset, so listen to your body and stay safe on your fitness journey,” says Dr. Chanda.

FAQs

Is it normal to feel tired after a treadmill workout? 

Yes, feeling tired after a workout is normal. However, extreme fatigue or weakness may indicate a problem.

What should I do if I experience chest pain while using the treadmill? 

Stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention if you experience chest pain during a workout.

Can dizziness during exercise be a sign of a heart problem? 

Yes, dizziness during exercise can indicate issues with blood pressure or circulation and should be taken seriously.

How can I monitor my heart rate during exercise? 

You can monitor your heart rate using a heart rate monitor or by checking your pulse manually.

Are cold sweats during exercise a cause for concern? 

Yes, sudden cold sweats, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, may signal a heart-related problem and should not be ignored.