Alterations of haemostasis in strenous physical activity

A case study

Abstract

Objective. To analyse the changes in coagulation in an athlete after repeated exhausting efforts. Methods. We have studied a case of a long-distance runner of 39 years of age in which we analysed the changes undergone in coagulation before, during and after three time to exhaustion tests. The resting intervals between tests were of 15 minutes and hydration was under control. Results. We have observed that hypercoagulation appears with an increase of fibrinogen, count and activation of platelets and, above all, an increase of factor VIII of almost three times its initial value. After 90 minutes of recovery the values of factor VIII were of 336% in relation to the 89% observed at rest. A correct interpretation of such a remarkable increase of factor VIII is essential to establish if it represents a risk that should be considered or if we are simply facing an innocuous effect of the acute phase. However, this question has not been dealt with in the bibliography. Conclusions. As there are very few scientific works analysing the changes of coagulation and fibrinolysis in trained sportspeople undergoing exhausting exercise repeatedly, we have designed a protocol indicating the effect of this type of exercise in well trained subjects.