Rhabdomyolysis and its warning signs
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- After New York City Marathon runner Rachel Apa died during the event from rhabdomyolysis, some are asking what it is and what the warning signs are.
Multiple sources indicate Apa died during the final stretch of the race and died from what her father shared was rhabdomyolysis. However, with the Measley Mile Mafia running streak club calling St. Joseph home, some area runners and more are asking what it is and how to identify it.
First, rhabdomyolysis, or rhabdo, is a rare muscle condition that can be caused by physical exertion. The muscles break down and eventually poison the body as toxic components of your muscle fibers enter your circulatory system and kidneys, according to Mosaic Life Care.
However, it is rare, which means the common person may not be diagnosed with it through general exercise, according to Missouri Western State University's Griffon Athletics Head Trainer Rachel Petty.
"I've been (at Missouri Western) for 14 years, and we've had maybe only two or three cases," Petty shared about the uncommon issue.
Another big point Petty made about dodging rhabdo is being safe in certain weather conditions. One of those main points is staying properly hydrated or nourished during any high-intensity workouts.
She also shared that if someone is doing a high-intensity workout in warm environments, they should practice proper rest, hydration and more.
Working out at the gym, on a run or wherever physical activity takes place is always a great way to stay healthy. However, Petty also shared that cooling down from the gym session, a game of pickleball or whatever it may be can be just as important.
Cooling down can take many forms, whether it's stretching, walking or breathing exercises after the activity to help heart rate and body temperature return safely to normal.
Mosaic also shared that symptoms of rhabdo can be dark or reddish urine, muscle aches and/or weakness. As with most health-related activities, Petty said it's best to consult a physician to make sure someone's body is reacting well and not experiencing any health conditions.
