Exercise-Related Discomfort: Is It Serious?

Q: Exercise-Related Discomfort: Is It Serious?

Hello： Difficulty breathing and chest tightness during intense exercise are primarily caused by increased workload on the heart and lungs. <br>Generally, these symptoms should improve after resting; however, if you experience cold sweats or even fainting, it is important to consi

Sudden discomfort during exercise?

Hello Doctor, a few days ago while doing aerobic boxing, I felt a significant difficulty in breathing halfway through.
My chest felt tight, I felt nauseous, a bit weak, and generally unwell, so I took a break.
I noticed that squatting made me feel somewhat better, but I continued to sit and slowly adjust my breathing.
I was also sweating profusely and felt dizzy.
After about 10 minutes, I started to feel better, but my face was pale, and the inside of my lower eyelids was also white.
This state of mild nausea persisted for about half an hour, and then I felt fine again.
A year ago, I was diagnosed with pulmonary arteriovenous malformation, and at that time, I consulted a doctor who said my blood oxygen levels were normal and that the malformation was quite small, so there was no need for concern.
I would like to ask if the issues I experienced during exercise could be related to the pulmonary arteriovenous malformation, or if I was just too fatigued and needed to rest? Thank you, Doctor.

momo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/17

Dr. Lu Mingzhi reply Pulmonology

Hello: Difficulty breathing and chest tightness during intense exercise are primarily caused by increased workload on the heart and lungs.
Generally, these symptoms should improve after resting; however, if you experience cold sweats or even fainting, it is important to consider the possibility of underlying cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases.
It is advisable to undergo a thorough examination by a cardiologist and a pulmonologist.

Reply Date: 2020/11/17

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for sharing your experience regarding the discomfort you felt during your recent boxing aerobics session. It’s important to address these symptoms seriously, especially considering your medical history of pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (AVM).
Firstly, the symptoms you described—shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, weakness, cold sweats, and dizziness—can be indicative of several underlying issues. While it’s possible that these symptoms were simply due to overexertion, they could also be related to your existing pulmonary condition.
When engaging in high-intensity exercise, especially if you are not accustomed to it, your body can react in various ways. For someone with a history of lung issues, the body may struggle to meet the increased oxygen demands during strenuous activities. This can lead to feelings of breathlessness and discomfort. Additionally, the cold sweats and pallor you experienced could suggest that your body was under stress, possibly due to inadequate blood flow or oxygenation during the exercise.

It’s crucial to consider the following points:
1. Exercise Intensity: If you are new to high-intensity workouts, it’s advisable to gradually increase the intensity of your exercises. Sudden, vigorous activities can overwhelm your cardiovascular and respiratory systems, especially if you have underlying conditions.

2. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and have eaten appropriately before exercising. Dehydration and low blood sugar can exacerbate feelings of weakness and dizziness.

3. Medical Evaluation: Given your history of pulmonary AVM, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation to ensure that your AVM is not contributing to your symptoms during exercise. A pulmonary function test or a cardiac evaluation could provide insights into how your body is handling physical exertion.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms during future workouts. If you experience similar discomfort, it may be best to stop the activity and rest. It’s essential to listen to your body and not push through severe discomfort.

5. Alternative Exercises: Consider incorporating lower-intensity exercises into your routine, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, which may be easier on your body while still providing cardiovascular benefits.
6. Warm-Up and Cool Down: Always include a proper warm-up and cool-down in your exercise routine. This can help prepare your body for the workout and aid in recovery afterward.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could be related to fatigue or overexertion, they may also be linked to your pulmonary condition. It’s essential to approach exercise with caution and seek medical advice to ensure your safety. Your health and well-being should always come first, and a tailored exercise plan that considers your medical history will be beneficial.

Please take care, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Best regards.

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