Effects of strenuous exercise on haemostasis

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Haemostasis Research
• Cardiovascular Science

Background:

• Exercise significantly impacts physiological systems, including blood coagulation and fibrinolysis.
• Previous research indicates exercise-induced alterations in haemostasis, but the precise mechanisms and clinical implications require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the effects of exercise on the body's haemostatic system.
• To explore the potential clinical consequences arising from exercise-induced haemostatic changes.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted using Medline and SportDiscus databases.
• The search encompassed articles published from 1966 to August 2002.
• Bibliographies of relevant retrieved papers were cross-referenced to identify additional studies.

Main Results:

• Exercise activates both coagulation and fibrinolytic cascades, evidenced by reduced clotting times (whole blood clotting time, activated partial thromboplastin time).
• Increased activity of cascade components and elevated fibrin degradation products were observed post-exercise.
• In vitro findings suggest that coagulation may remain activated even after fibrinolysis returns to baseline levels.

Conclusions:

• Strenuous exercise stimulates both coagulation and fibrinolytic cascades, though their temporal relationship and clinical significance are not fully elucidated.
• Healthcare professionals and athletes should be cognizant of exercise-induced haemostatic modifications.
• Further research is warranted to clarify the role of these haemostatic changes in events such as sudden cardiac death.