Can You Die From Working Out Too Hard?

You must have heard coaches and gym trainers yelling at individuals, asking them to push themselves harder during workouts. Whether you’re an athlete or not, you must have experienced this at some point in your life. While regular exercise is linked to longevity, the opposite can occur if you train too hard. Rhabdomyolysis is a serious condition that occurs when muscle fibers break down and release their contents into the bloodstream. It can lead to kidney damage and failure, dangerous heart rhythms, seizures and even death.

Can Rhabdo Kill You?

Commonly called rhabdo, this dangerous muscle condition occurs when muscle tissues break down and release proteins and other substances into the blood. When this happens, toxic components of your muscle fibers enter your circulation system and kidneys. This can cause kidney damage, seizure, fluctuation in heart rhythms and even death. People who are high risk for this condition are mostly young men but it is also common with people suffering from sickle cell disease.

How To Identify Rhabdo?

Major symptoms of rhabdo are dark brown or red urine or decreased urine altogether, and intense muscle pain. In addition, a person can also feel uscle weakness and trouble moving arms or legs. One must note that half of people with this condition may have no muscle-related symptoms. While the trigger is mostly an intense workout, it can also result from a hard trauma to muscles like a burn, electric shock, prolonged compression or a hard fall. Non-traumatic causes of this condition include the use of alcohol or illegal drugs such as heroin, cocaine, or amphetamines. A heat stoke is also something that can cause your muscles to rupture.

What Can You Do To Stave Off This Condition?

To prevent rhabdo, it’s crucial to approach exercise safely. Start with gradual intensity increases, especially if you’re new to a workout regimen or returning after a break. Stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise, as dehydration can increase the risk. Additionally, listen to your body—if you experience unusual fatigue, muscle pain, or weakness, it's important to rest and consult a healthcare professional. Incorporating rest days into your routine allows muscles to recover, reducing the likelihood of injury and overexertion. Lastly, educate yourself about the symptoms of rhabdo so you can seek prompt medical attention if needed.