Exercise is meant to be a healthful practice, but if engaging in certain types of exercise causes fainting, then it can no longer be considered healthy. Fainting during exercise is a physical warning sign that something is wrong with either how you are practicing the exercise, or that something is awry with your circulatory system. If you experience fainting during exercise, or even lightheaded discomfort, consult with your medical doctor to determine the cause right away.
Why Fainting is a Problem
Fainting is a symptom of circulatory dysregulation. When oxygenated blood is quickly drawn from the head to the heart in a physiologic effort to sustain life in the presence of exertion or stress, fainting may occur. Fainting may also be a symptom of vagaling which is a life-threatening response to shock or stress.
Long Q.T.
People who have an often undiagnosed medical condition called "long Q.T." are at risk for fainting and possibly dying during exercise. A long Q.T. diagnosis indicates that the heart has an irregular heartbeat that features a longer second beat. This medical condition is often experienced as heart palpitations as the heart tries to keep up with oxygen demands, skipping beats to catch up. Long Q.T. is often unnoticed unless a heart rate scan is taken -- as it is sometimes so subtle that a regular stethoscope check up may miss it. People with long Q.T. may need to take beta blockers or practice alternative forms of exercise to maximize safety. Long Q.T indicates that swimming alone, deep sea diving, demanding athletic ventures and other water sports may be contraindicated due to the risk of drowning or injury if blackouts or fainting should occur. According to authors and physical therapy specialists, Steve Vickery and Marilyn Moffat, every young athlete should be assessed for long Q.T. as it is the most common reason for sudden, unexpected death among healthy, non-substance abusing athletes.
Breathing
Fainting during exercise may also be a less serious side effect of improper breathing techniques. When fashion indicated that women should wear corsets, fainting was common and every woman carried "smelling salts" with her in case of its occurrence. This type of fainting was caused by restriction in the lung region preventing enough oxygen from entering the bloodstream. Today, when oxygen intake is compromised through improper breath technique, such as holding your breath instead of deep abdominal breathing during strenuous exercise, fainting may occur. This problem may be corrected by consciously breathing throughout any type of exercise.
Practice Proper Breathing
Yoga is a holistic practice which focuses largely on correct breathing techniques. The practice of abdominal breathing during yoga postures teaches correct breathing technique. Deep breathing awareness techniques may be carried into other types of exercise to prevent fainting. Yogic practices which feature pranayama breathing or the "breath of fire" are ideal for this training. Additionally, Bikram yoga, or Hot yoga, is effective at teaching this type of breathing because the heated rooms require your breathing to be proper to avoid fatigue and lightheaded discomfort.
Hydration
Fainting during exercise may also be a sign of dehydration or overheating. To remedy this, be sure to consume adequate water before, during and after all workouts. Limit exercise to cooler times of the day, such as morning or evening, during the summer months to prevent overheating and the risk of fainting.
Considerations
Overexertion, medical conditions, improper breathing and dehydration are all factors that must be considered when experiencing any discomfort during physical activity. With some minor adjustments and pro-active health checkups, exercise is a great way to keep your body healthy and fit. Because there are so many types of exercise, it is perfectly acceptable to access the type that provides the most comfort for your personal experience.
References
- "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness"; Larry Trivieri Jr.; 2001
- "Bikram Yoga"; Bikram Choudhury; 2007
- "The American Physical Therapy Association Book of Body Maintenance and Repair"; Steve Vickery and Marilyn Moffat; 1999
Member Comments