Health Factors to Consider Before Running an Ultramarathon
Before you decide to run an Ultramarathon, you need to know how it could affect your health. There are a range of health consequences related to this activity, ranging from cuts, bruises and blisters to full on hallucinations. Below are some of the key health issues to be aware of and take steps to prevent these when both training for and running an Ultramarathon.
Temporarily blurred vision
Ultramarathons last considerably longer than a traditional marathon. There is a chance that your cornea could swell and this could lead to your vision becoming significantly blurred during the run.
Bites and stings from insects
Ultramarathons are an outdoor sports and bites and stings from insects can be common place, depending on weather and climate.
Cuts and bruises
Normally ultramarathons are conducted on uneven terrains and this means that there is a heightened chance you could fall and hurt yourself. This is rarely serious and is more likely to take the form of cuts and bruises, as opposed to breaks or fractures.
Heart issues
It is rare to experience heart issues as a result of marathons and this is because when you run your circulatory system and heart are kept in good health.
However, a number of studies also indicate that runners who cover long distances have a higher risk of atrial fibrillation. At a basic level, this is a problem where your heartbeat becomes abnormal. Other research has also proved that you may have to contend with temporary cardiac dysfunction following such a long run. This is especially true for participants who have had the least amount of training prior to the run.
Respiratory issues
In 2014 a study was done among ultrarunners where it was found that many suffer from respiratory diseases. This may be attributed to the flora and dust that is common on the trails where such events are conducted.
Exercise related hyponatremia
As a long-distance runner, you should be aware of this, as it is a potentially deadly condition. Hyponatremia involves the sodium of your body becoming diluted by drinking an excessive amount of sports drinks or water. This way the cells can swell and burst, leading to your death.
Hypothermia
This is a condition where your body temperature drops too low. This happens because in an ultramarathon it is natural for your energy stores to be depleted and the weather conditions tend to change. In fact, in marathons like these, heat illness is rather common as well. This is because of the intense effort required to complete an Ultramarathon.
Gastrointestinal issues
People who run normal marathons burn more carbs and they need only gels and sports drinks in order to get by. Ultrarunners burn a higher amount of fat and this is why they need proper food. An Ultramarathon runner has to deal with more gastrointestinal issues. Apart from these they suffer from issues such as muscle cramps, stress fractures, and blisters.
