Can Exercise Lead to an Enlarged Heart in Athletes?

Athlete’s Heart: What You Need to Know

When you exercise regularly, your muscles get stronger and more efficient. But did you know that your heart can also undergo changes with intense training? This phenomenon is known as athlete’s heart, and it’s a normal physiological response to prolonged and intense exercise.

According to Dr. John Higgins, a sports cardiologist, athlete’s heart is a natural adaptation of the heart muscle to the stress of exercise over time. This can result in an increase in the size and mass of the heart, with the chamber growing larger by 10 to 20 percent on average. These changes, known as exercise-induced cardiac remodeling, can vary depending on the type of training an individual engages in.

While athlete’s heart is generally considered a benign condition, there are certain risk factors to be aware of. It is more common in Black athletes and individuals who participate in intense aerobic exercises and endurance sports. Elite endurance athletes like long-distance swimmers, runners, cyclists, and triathletes are particularly susceptible to developing athlete’s heart. Even weekend warriors who engage in longer and more intense workouts may experience these cardiac changes.

But how do you know if you have athlete’s heart? Some people may not exhibit any symptoms, but others may experience dizziness, heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, or feelings of impending doom. In more severe cases, symptoms like waking up short of breath, irregular heart rhythm, or swelling in the belly or legs may occur.

While athlete’s heart is generally not dangerous, it can have some side effects. For instance, individuals with athlete’s heart may have a slower heart rate and heart murmurs. There is also evidence to suggest that long-term athlete’s heart may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia that can lead to strokes.

It’s important to differentiate between athlete’s heart and underlying heart conditions that may present similar symptoms. Serious heart problems like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, or hypertension can also manifest as an enlarged heart. If you experience fainting, chest pain, or a decline in sports performance, it’s crucial to consult a sports cardiologist for a proper evaluation.

In terms of exercise, there is a fine line between beneficial and harmful levels of physical activity. While moderate exercise is beneficial for heart health, excessive exercise can lead to overtraining syndrome. Signs of overtraining include muscle soreness, performance declines, fatigue, and mood changes. It’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your workout routine accordingly to prevent overtraining.

If you’re concerned about athlete’s heart, a simple echocardiogram can provide valuable insights into the structure and function of your heart. In most cases, athlete’s heart will revert to normal once exercise intensity is reduced. However, for some individuals, residual athlete’s heart may persist, requiring ongoing monitoring and management.

Despite the potential risks associated with athlete’s heart, regular exercise remains crucial for overall heart health. Exercise can improve oxygen utilization, reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of cardiac events. So, don’t let the fear of athlete’s heart deter you from staying active and reaping the numerous benefits of a healthy lifestyle.