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Erythrocyte sickling during exercise and thermal stress
Michael F Bergeron1, Joseph G Cannon, Elaina L Hall
1Department of Physical Therapy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912-0800, USA. mbergero@mcg.edu
Summary
Staying hydrated during exercise in hot conditions significantly reduces red blood cell sickling in sickle cell trait carriers. Adequate fluid intake is crucial for preventing adverse effects during heat exposure.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Hematology
- Environmental Medicine
Background:
- Sickle cell trait (HbAS) carriers can experience adverse effects during strenuous exercise in hot environments.
- Erythrocyte sickling and neutrophil activation are potential concerns for HbAS individuals under heat stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of exercise in heat and fluid consumption on erythrocyte sickling and neutrophil activation in sickle cell trait carriers.
- To determine if adequate fluid intake can mitigate exercise-induced sickling in HbAS individuals.
Main Methods:
- Six African American men (2 HbAS, 4 HbAA) underwent two randomized exercise sessions in a hot environment (33°C).
- Sessions involved 45 minutes of brisk walking with either no fluid or ad libitum fluid intake (1.02 L).
- Measurements included core temperature, heart rate, perceived exertion, erythrocyte sickling percentage, and plasma myeloperoxidase.
Main Results:
- Fluid intake led to lower heart rate and core temperature compared to no fluid intake during exercise.
- Erythrocyte sickling increased in HbAS carriers only during exercise without fluid intake (3.5%-5.5%).
- Plasma myeloperoxidase responses were elevated in HbAS carriers compared to HbAA individuals.
Conclusions:
- Fluid ingestion, sufficient to offset body weight loss, effectively reduces erythrocyte sickling during exercise in heat for HbAS carriers.
- Maintaining hydration is a key strategy to prevent sickling complications in sickle cell trait individuals exercising in hot conditions.