What are red blood cells?
Red blood cells are blood cells that help carry oxygen throughout the body. Blood in the urine following intense physical activity or vigorous exercise may occur in some individuals after an intense workout, and particularly after exercises that involve impact on the body, such as running, jumping, or contact sports.
How can levels be affected?
The presence of blood in the urine can be linked to various factors such as:
Muscle breakdown
During intense physical activity, muscles can experience shock and breakdown, resulting in the release of small amounts of blood into the urine.
Organ damage during exercise
High-impact activities or contact sports can cause shock to the kidneys, causing minor bleeding. As a result, red blood cells may be found in the urine.
Hemolysis of exertion
Intense physical activity can sometimes cause red blood cells to break down due to repetitive movements or impact on the body , leading to the release of hemoglobin into the urine.
Dehydration
Severe dehydration can sometimes cause excessive concentrations of substances in the urine, including red blood cells, which can make the urine appear bloody.
Exertional hemolysis is a normal, benign reaction that usually resolves quickly after exercise stops .
How can I maintain an optimal rate?
To reduce the presence of blood in the urine or the risk of hemolysis when playing sports, the following advice should be followed:
Stay hydrated
Make sure to stay well hydrated before, during and after training.
Gradual increase in intensity
Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to allow your body to adapt to physical stress. Sudden bursts of intensity or overtraining can increase the risk of muscle injury and hemolysis.
Proper warm-up and cool-down
Performing a proper warm-up before training to prepare your body for physical activity helps reduce muscle breakdown. After training, give yourself plenty of time to recover, which can help reduce stress on the body.
Listen to your body
Be alert for any signs of discomfort, pain, or unusual symptoms while exercising. If you experience pain or discomfort in your muscles or urinary tract, consider reducing the intensity of your workout or taking a break.
Avoid high impact activities
If you have a history of blood in the urine or hemolysis, consider avoiding high-impact activities or sports that involve repetitive motions, collisions, or contact that may increase blood levels in the urine.
Use of adapted equipment
Use appropriate equipment for your sport or activity that helps reduce impact, shock or vibration to the body, and thus prevent premature breakdown of red blood cells. This can help reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of a fall or collision.
Be careful when using medications
Use medications responsibly and as directed by your healthcare provider. Avoid unnecessary use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin, as they can potentially contribute to hemolysis.
By following these tips and taking precautions, you can help reduce blood in your urine and the risk of hemolysis during physical activity, promoting a safer and more enjoyable exercise experience.