Which two conditions are risk factors for exertional rhabdomyolysis?

Which two conditions are risk factors for exertional rhabdomyolysis?

• A. Hyperhydration and dehydration
• B. High salt intake and dehydration
• C. Training only in cold environment
• D. Hypohydration and exertional hyponatremia (EAH)

Answer: (D)

Exertional rhabdomyolysis is more likely when fluid and electrolyte balance is disrupted during intense exercise. Dehydration lowers blood volume and raises core temperature, which reduces muscle perfusion and makes muscle cells more susceptible to injury during strenuous activity. When sodium balance is also disrupted during exercise—exercise-associated hyponatremia—the cells can become further stressed by osmotic and ionic imbalances. This combination of not enough fluid (hypohydration) and a sodium disturbance (exertional hyponatremia) creates conditions that increase the risk of muscle breakdown and release of muscle contents, i.e., rhabdomyolysis. Other options don’t reflect this problematic mix of dehydration plus electrolyte disturbance, which is why this pair best explains the risk.

Exertional rhabdomyolysis is more likely when fluid and electrolyte balance is disrupted during intense exercise. Dehydration lowers blood volume and raises core temperature, which reduces muscle perfusion and makes muscle cells more susceptible to injury during strenuous activity. When sodium balance is also disrupted during exercise—exercise-associated hyponatremia—the cells can become further stressed by osmotic and ionic imbalances. This combination of not enough fluid (hypohydration) and a sodium disturbance (exertional hyponatremia) creates conditions that increase the risk of muscle breakdown and release of muscle contents, i.e., rhabdomyolysis. Other options don’t reflect this problematic mix of dehydration plus electrolyte disturbance, which is why this pair best explains the risk.