athlete's paradox
The phenomenon where intense exercise provides cardiovascular benefits but may simultaneously increase acute cardiac risk during activity.
Full Definition
Athlete's paradox describes the seemingly contradictory relationship between exercise and cardiac risk, where regular intense physical training significantly reduces long-term cardiovascular disease risk and mortality, yet transiently increases the risk of sudden cardiac events during the exercise period itself. This paradox is particularly relevant in sports cardiology when counseling athletes about risk-benefit ratios. The acute risk elevation is attributed to increased sympathetic drive, altered electrolyte balance, and mechanical stress on the heart during intense exertion. Understanding this paradox is crucial for proper risk stratification and athlete counseling.
Usage
Usage note: Use apostrophe in 'athlete's'; explain concept clearly when first mentioned in clinical documents.
In Context
- "When counseling the marathon runner about continuing competition after his arrhythmia diagnosis, the cardiologist explained the athlete's paradox." — Clinical consultation note
- "The athlete's paradox must be considered when developing exercise recommendations for patients with known cardiac conditions." — Medical research paper