Symptoms of paleness and weakness may result from exercise when biological and environmental factors are not ideal. Symptoms of weakness and paleness when exercising stem from a variety of situations. Watch for biological cues, such as confusion, dizziness, heart palpitations, clammy or sweaty palms, tingling or numbness and fatigue, to circumvent further development of the condition. Drink plenty of fluids, monitor your heart rate, use proper form and eat a light snack one hour prior to exercising to prevent symptoms of weakness and paleness.
Environmental Temperature
Exercising in a cold environment may cause you to develop hypothermia symptoms, such as muscle weakness, paleness, shivering, fatigue and confusion. Hypothermia may develop toward the end of your workout when your clothes are sweaty, your heart rate slows down and your body is producing less heat. Exercising in hot environments can lead to heat exhaustion, including symptoms like dizziness, excess sweating, weakness, cramping, paleness and shallow breathing. Heat exhaustion may result when you consume too few fluids or expose yourself to heat under strenuous physical conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop exercising, seek a cooler environment and drink plenty of water.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a condition involving the compression of vascular and neurological components, such as veins, arteries and nerves. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome occurs when muscle tissues enlarge and muscles contract. Additionally, body positioning can contribute to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome symptoms, like muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, pain and paleness in the compressed area. Using improper technique during strength training exercises or exercises placing strain on the veins or nerves can cause compressed nerves or veins. Physical therapy focusing on good form and relieving compressed areas help this condition.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar, otherwise known as hypoglycemia, occurs among individuals dieting or fasting and among individuals with diabetes. Blood sugar levels are low in the morning after awaking. Exercising prior to eating breakfast or exercising for long periods of time can diminish the body's glucose reserves. Symptoms of low blood sugar consist of paleness, muscle weakness, fatigue, dizziness, cold sweats and convulsions. Drexel University College of Medicine recommends consuming 15 g of carbohydrates for low blood sugar and balance extra calorie consumption with increased exercise.
Glycogen Storage Diseases
Glycogen storage diseases resemble the characteristics of low blood sugar, as this type of condition causes low blood sugar. Glycogen is stored sugar in the body. When you exercise, you use glycogen during the first 10 minutes as your primary supply for energy. Unfortunately, individuals with glycogen storage diseases have difficulty accessing and storing glycogen properly. When these individuals exercise, an increased risk of low blood sugar ensues. Symptoms of glycogen storage disease include those experienced with low blood pressure, such as paleness, weakness, muscle cramping and sweaty palms.
References
- United States Military Academy: Exercising in Cold Environments
- Hospital for Special Surgery; Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS): An Overview; Joseph H. Feinberg; December 2009
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center; Glycogen Storage Diseases; November 2010
- Drexel University College of Medicine; Hypoglycemia; May 2010
- University of Missouri; Exercising in the Heat; Stephen D. Ball; June 2009
