Exercise-Induced Dizziness in Student Athletes: Causes and Solutions

My son wants to know, is it normal to experience hypoxia for about one minute during exercise on Mondays?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my 15-year-old son who is a student athlete.
He practices intensely from Monday to Friday, but he has been experiencing a situation where after resting and not exercising on the weekends, he feels dizzy and short of breath when he resumes activity on Monday.
He describes it as seeing stars, and sometimes he experiences a brief blackout, but it resolves within a minute.
This occurs about 2-3 times a month on Mondays.
However, during high-intensity competitions lasting 90 minutes, he does not experience these symptoms, and he also does not have this issue during external training camps where he may be active every day.
Could you please explain the possible reasons for this, and whether further examination is necessary? Thank you.

CC, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/09

Dr. Chen Weida reply Neurology

Hello! Regarding the issue of hypoxia during exercise, it may be caused by low blood pressure leading to insufficient blood flow and oxygen deprivation in the brain.
When this occurs, it is advisable to stop the activity, sit down, and rest while maintaining regular breathing.
Recovery typically takes about 1 to 2 minutes.
If discomfort persists, it is recommended to take the child to a medical facility for treatment.
Wishing you and your family good health and safety.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2024/07/09

More Info

Understanding exercise-induced dizziness in student athletes, particularly in a 15-year-old who experiences symptoms after a break from high-intensity training, requires a comprehensive approach. The symptoms described—dizziness, seeing stars, and temporary blackouts—can be concerning, especially since they occur after a period of inactivity and not during intense competition or training.

Potential Causes
1. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance: After a weekend of rest, your son may not be adequately hydrated or may have an imbalance in electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.) when he resumes high-intensity training. Dehydration can lead to decreased blood volume, which may cause dizziness during exertion.

2. Postural Hypotension: Transitioning from a resting state to vigorous activity can cause a drop in blood pressure, particularly if he stands up quickly or starts exercising without a proper warm-up. This can lead to dizziness and a sensation of faintness.

3. Vasovagal Response: Some individuals may experience a vasovagal response, where the body overreacts to certain triggers (like intense physical activity after rest), leading to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in dizziness.

4. Lack of Conditioning: If your son has been inactive over the weekend, his body may not be fully conditioned to handle the sudden intensity of Monday's practice. This can lead to temporary dizziness as his cardiovascular system struggles to keep up with the demands of exercise.

5. Hypoglycemia: If he has not eaten adequately before practice, low blood sugar levels can cause dizziness and weakness. It’s essential for athletes to maintain proper nutrition, especially before training sessions.

6. Underlying Medical Conditions: While less common, conditions such as anemia, cardiovascular issues, or vestibular disorders could also contribute to dizziness during exercise.

Recommendations
1. Hydration: Ensure your son is well-hydrated throughout the week, especially before and during practice. Encourage him to drink water and consider electrolyte-replenishing drinks if he sweats heavily during training.

2. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats is crucial. He should eat a nutritious meal or snack before practice to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

3. Warm-Up: Implement a thorough warm-up routine that gradually increases in intensity. This can help prepare his cardiovascular system for the demands of high-intensity exercise.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of when these episodes occur, including any associated activities, diet, and hydration levels. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers.

5. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given that these episodes occur regularly, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. A sports medicine physician or a pediatrician can conduct a thorough evaluation, including blood tests to check for anemia or electrolyte imbalances, and possibly an ECG to assess heart function.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: If he has had a break from training, consider a gradual return to full intensity. This can help his body adjust better and reduce the likelihood of dizziness.

Conclusion
While occasional dizziness can be common among athletes, especially after a break, it is essential to address these symptoms proactively. Ensuring proper hydration, nutrition, and a gradual increase in activity intensity can help mitigate these episodes. However, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to rule out any underlying conditions and to ensure your son's safety and well-being as he continues his athletic pursuits.

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