Rhabdomyolysis involves the breakdown of muscle fibers. The disorder can be induced by extreme activity, and causes your body to produce high levels of creatine kinase. Substances including myoglobin -- the protein responsible for your muscles' red pigment -- are then released into your bloodstream. Serious kidney damage can occur as a result of this, and kidney failure and acute tubular necrosis may manifest.
Rhabdomyolysis
Strenuous exercise can result in rhabdomyolysis irrespective of your age, gender or level of physical fitness. When striated skeletal muscle fibers located on your arms and legs break down following excessive and prolonged exercise, creatine kinase and myoglobin leaks into the bloodstream. Myoglobin can cause severe damage when filtered through your kidneys, blocking structures and limiting the flow of oxygen to kidney tissue. Marathon running, weight lifting and other intense strenuous exercises and activities can lead to rhabdomyolysis and, the more intense your exercise routine, the more severe your symptoms will be.
Causes of Rhabdomyolysis
Excessive and strenuous exercise is a known cause of rhabdomyolysis, although alcoholism, heatstroke, crush injuries and the overuse of certain drugs all increase your risk of developing it. The inherited genetic disorders Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and McArdle's disease are also said to be predisposing factors.
Case Study and Symptoms
The "British Journal of Sports Medicine" highlighted a case in which 119 high school students from Taipai developed rhabdomyolysis following intense and vigorous exercise. Many of the students developed rhabdomyolysis two to four days after they completed 120 pushups in five minutes and displayed classic signs such as muscle weakness and pain, while passing dark colored urine. Breathing problems, an accelerated heart rate, nausea and mental confusion are also symptoms of rhabdomyolysis.
Diagnosis Prevention and Treatment
A biopsy to test muscle tissue, blood tests to check for creatine kinase levels, a urine sample, a CAT scan and an MRI can all be used to check for rhabdomyolysis. Drinking lots of water following strenuous exercise and activity may assist in preventing rhabdomyolysis, as water helps flush myoglobin from the kidneys and dilutes urine. Hydration is also central to the treatment of rhabdomyolysis. Fluids may be delivered intravenously, depending on the severity of the condition. Kidney dialysis may also be administered in individual cases, and medications such as diuretics and bicarbonates may be included as part of a treatment plan, provided your body is producing sufficient amounts of urine.
