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Plasma electrolyte and hematological changes after marathon running in adolescents
Natthapon Traiperm1, Hannes Gatterer, Martin Burtscher
1Department of Sport Science, Medical Section, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|January 1, 2013
Summary
Adolescent marathon runners showed minimal plasma electrolyte shifts and no clinical risks post-race. While white blood cell counts increased, hematological changes were not significant, indicating safety in trained young athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Pediatric Physiology
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Marathon running in adolescents is increasing.
- Understanding physiological responses in young athletes is crucial.
- Limited data exists on electrolyte and hematological changes in adolescent marathoners.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate plasma electrolyte and hematological alterations in adolescent runners after a 42.2-km marathon.
- To assess the safety and physiological impact of marathon running on young athletes.
Main Methods:
- Fifty adolescent runners (ages 13-17) participated.
- Blood samples were collected pre-race, immediately post-race, and 24 hours post-race.
- Complete blood cell count and electrolyte concentrations were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Forty-seven adolescents completed the marathon.
- Slight electrolyte changes and increased white blood cells were observed immediately post-race.
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit decreased, suggesting plasma volume expansion, with some changes persisting for 24 hours.
Conclusions:
- This study is the first to examine a large cohort of young marathon runners.
- Well-trained adolescent marathoners are unlikely to experience clinically significant electrolyte or hematological issues.
- Marathon running appears safe for educated and trained adolescent athletes.
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