Powerlifting Can Be Dangerous For Your Heart

People who quickly lift weights that are more than half of their body weight can risk tearing their aorta, a New York cardiologist says.

Powerlifting and other extreme weight lifting has become popular. While people marvel at the feats powerlifters are able to accomplish, the athletes may be putting themselves at risk for serious heart conditions.

“Powerlifting can cause spikes in blood pressure, which over time can lead to a thickened heart muscle and increase the risk of a tear in the aorta,” said David Revere, MD, cardiologist at Southside Hospital. “So even though someone might feel they’re doing something good for themselves because they’re working out, it could have detrimental effects over time.”

A torn aorta, if not treated immediately, could be deadly, Dr. Revere says. Some symptoms of a torn aorta include chest pain that can sometimes also be felt in the person’s back.

For more information about torn aortas:

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Photo credit: Ibrakovic