Know the Signs of Cardiac Arrest
Anyone who has ever pushed to the finish of a half marathon knows all too well the feeling of utter exhaustion. So it's hard to differentiate between normal fatigue and something much more serious, which is why many victims of cardiac arrest may ignore the telltale symptoms. Campbell stresses that if you experience light-headedness, dizziness, chest pains or shortness of breath during a race, you should stop and head straight to a medical tent.
"If you feel as though you are going to pass out or if you are having significant [heart] palpitations, you should stop and seek medical care as well," he says.
Preventing Future Cardiac Arrest Deaths in Races
As more and more people are adding long distance races to their bucket lists, there is the lingering concern that these types of deaths will continue to occur.
Many large races in the U.S. have increased the number of medics and volunteers trained in CPR stationed along race courses. Case in point: At the L.A. Marathon in March, a 28-year-old collapsed in cardiac arrest at mile 20. Medical volunteers immediately began CPR while firefighters stationed nearby were able to rapidly provide advanced life support measures, and transport him to a hospital. The runner survived. Other large races, like the Boston Marathon, have placed defibrillators in medical tents; this equipment greatly increases the survival rate of those in cardiac arrest if used within the first few minutes.
Recent data supports the routine electrocardiogram (EKG) testing in athletes as a screening test prior to participation in sports, says Campbell. Some race directors have tossed around the idea of having participants take physicals, which could include EKG testing, prior to running. However, requiring testing and proof of physical condition is an arduous—and likely impractical—task when some events welcome over 30,000 runners.
More: 7 Health Tests Every Runner Should Take
Protect Your Heart
The bottom line? As a runner, you must be your own advocate. Prior to training for events like the half marathon or marathon, "It's essential to meet with a primary care doctor to go over your medical history," says Campbell. Many diseases of the heart run in families, and a positive family history of cardiac arrest or sudden death may prompt your doctor to perform further diagnostic testing.
More: 6 Tests That Could Save You From a Heart Attack
Proper training is key, as is prepping yourself for the right kinds of conditions. If you know that race day weather will be extra hot or cold, "Do some training in those conditions as well in order to prepare the body for the stress," says Campbell. "In addition, adequate hydration and appropriate clothing [for hot or cold extremes] is critical for protection."
More: 3 Heat-Related Illnesses You Can Avoid
Then, on race day, be sure to fill out the "in case of emergency" information on the back of your race bib in permanent ink. That way, if you do fall unconscious, your information regarding allergies and other medical conditions will be easily accessible. And if you ever feel like something may be off while you're out on the course, get checked out right away. Remember: No race medal is worth risking your life.
More: When Should You Drop Out of a Marathon?
Sign up for your next race.