On a sunny weekend, 25-year-old Li Ming (not his real name) went for a run as usual, enjoying the joy and vitality brought by exercise. However, this time he did not go home as usual. Shortly after the run, he suddenly collapsed and was pronounced dead after first aid failed. The findings revealed that Li Ming died of myocarditis, a fatal illness often mistaken for the common cold.
Myocarditis: The invisible killer that hides behind the everyday
Myocarditis, a disease that sounds strange, is actually lurking in the shadows of our daily lives. It is an inflammation of the heart muscle, usually caused by a viral infection, but can also be triggered by an abnormality in the autoimmune system. This inflammation can have a serious impact on heart function and can even lead to heart failure or arrhythmias.
1. Why: It's not just viruses
Myocarditis is often associated with viral infections, and common pathogens include enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and influenza viruses. However, in addition to viruses, certain bacteria, parasites, and fungi can also be the culprits. Myocarditis can also be triggered by drug reactions, radiation therapy, or certain conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
2. Symptoms: Silent invasion
The symptoms of myocarditis can be so subtle that it's easy to overlook. Initial symptoms are often mistaken for the common cold, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, and fever. However, when inflammation worsens, chest pain, palpitations, difficulty breathing, and even fainting may occur. Due to the inconspicuous nature of these symptoms, myocarditis is often inadvertently overlooked until the condition is severe.
3. Impact: More than just a sickness
The effects of myocarditis go far beyond a simple viral infection. It can cause the ventricles to enlarge and the walls of the ventricles to thin, which can affect the heart's pumping function. In the long term, this can lead to heart failure or increase the risk of arrhythmias, and in severe cases, sudden death.
4. Young people are no exception
While myocarditis can occur at all ages, young people are especially vigilant. They may ignore the mild symptoms of the early stage and continue to engage in high-intensity exercise because they are physically strong, which in turn may exacerbate the symptoms and consequences of myocarditis.
The difference between myocarditis and the common cold: Don't let the hidden risks blind you
Myocarditis, a word that sounds a little distant from everyday life, is actually more common and dangerous than many people think. It doesn't get better with a few days of rest and proper treatment like the common cold. Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle that can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including viral infections and may also be due to the body's response to certain drugs or toxins. Correct recognition of the symptoms of myocarditis is essential for early treatment and prevention of serious complications.
Let's look at the symptoms of the common cold, and they include a sore throat, nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, and a slight increase in body temperature. While symptoms of myocarditis may include fever and fatigue — similar to a cold — there are also more serious signs, such as chest pain, palpitations, difficulty breathing or fainting. Myocarditis can lead to irregular heartbeats, heart failure, and even sudden death, especially if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.
The key to distinguishing between the two is persistence and severity of symptoms. The common cold usually resolves spontaneously within a week or so, and the symptoms are relatively mild. Myocarditis, on the other hand, is more persistent and severe, and may be accompanied by chest pain and severe breathing difficulties. If you experience these symptoms, especially after strenuous exercise or while recovering from a cold, you should immediately seek medical help for a detailed heart exam.
Exercise and myocarditis: Know your limits
Exercise is generally considered one of the healthy lifestyles, but when myocarditis is latent, excessive physical activity can be a catalyst for triggering a serious cardiac event. This does not mean that we should avoid exercise, but rather be more aware of our body and its warning signs.
The reason why exercise exacerbates myocarditis symptoms is relatively straightforward: strenuous exercise increases the burden on the heart, causing the already damaged heart muscle to work even more. In myocarditis, the heart's pumping efficiency may have been impaired, and strenuous exercise can trigger arrhythmias, heart enlargement, and even cardiac arrest.
So, how do you exercise safely and avoid potential risks? First, it's important to understand the signs and symptoms. If you feel unusual fatigue, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fainting after exercising, you should stop exercising immediately and consult a doctor. Second, regular physical examinations, especially electrocardiograms and echocardiography, can help identify problems early. Finally, if there is a known history of myocarditis or heart disease, an exercise plan should be developed under the guidance of a doctor.