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Loss of Consciousness During Intense Exercise: Is It Hypotension or Not?
Michael G Leahy1, Giorgio Manferdelli1, Eric T Hedge1
1Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, Dallas, Texas, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.
Loss of consciousness (LOC) during maximal exercise in athletes can occur without low blood pressure. This syncope may result from exceeding physiological limits, leading to reduced blood flow to the brain.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Cardiology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- An 18-year-old female middle-distance runner experienced recurrent episodes of loss of consciousness (LOC) during athletic competitions.
- This case highlights a potential issue in highly trained athletes.
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