Warning signs after half marathon for beginners

 

Running a half marathon is a joyful, supported by all your experience and trainings done for it. After completing a half marathon, especially if you're a beginner, it's important to listen to your body and watch out for red flag warning signs of injury or over-exertion and take time to rest and recover .This is the best time to relax, recover and re-start again.

Here are some common warning signs:

All runners have different body and running experiences; some may be new to participate and some may be elite runners. After completing or during run of a distance of 21.095 km one may be feeling uneasy, tired, and restless or may get injuries. Neglecting this can cause severe problems. Some common warning signs are as follows.

1. Dizziness or fatigue

If you feel extremely tired, dizzy, or fainting, it may be a sign that your body is struggling to recover from the exertion and requires immediate medical attention.

In such case stop, hydrate sip by sip water or electrolyte, and rest. If dizziness continues or worsens, seek immediate medical attention.

 2. Sharp or continuous Pain

If during or after running a half marathon you feel Sharp pain in joints, muscles, or bones (most probably in knees, hips, or ankles) ,it is waning sign of injury.

In such case rest and avoid putting impact on the affected area. Ice, elevation, and compression can help with swelling. If the pain continues, seek immediate medical attention.

3. Swelling

Swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles is common after long-distance running, but excessive or painful swelling can indicate a strain or sprain.

In such case rise - elevate the swollen area, apply ice pack, and avoid putting impact or pressure on it. If swelling doesn’t minimize or is painful, go to doctor.

4. Dehydration Symptoms

Hydration is a key part of running and failing to do so can cause severe problems. Symptoms like dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue may be signs of dehydration.

Hydrate with water and electrolyte-rich drinks.

5. Nausea or Vomiting

 Many after running a long distance feel like stomach pain or like vomiting. Feeling above symptoms post-race can be a sign of dehydration, overexertion, or improper fueling during the race.

If feeling nausea or vomiting taking rest, hydrating slowly, and eat something gentle like a banana or toast if needed can be beneficial. If nausea continues, see a doctor.

6.  Heat Stroke

Many times running in hot temperature can be very difficult especially for new beginners. If symptoms like extreme fatigue, dizziness, nausea, confusion, uneasiness, heart fast rate or palpitation can be warning sign of heat stroke.

In such case immediately moving to a cool area or in shade, taking rest and slowly hydrating is much needed. If symptoms are severe, seek emergency medical help.

7. Blisters

Running long distance can cause blisters if your clothes, gear or socks are not as you required for race day. Blisters on your feet around your clothing and skin can be very uncomfortable and painful.

In such situation clean and treat blisters carefully. Using moisturizing cream, body lotion prevents future irritation.

8. Difficulty in Breathing

New runners can feel running half marathon as huge target and during it can undergo shortness of breath or difficulty breathing which further during recovery may indicate a more serious problem

Seeking medical attention immediately in such situation is beneficial.

 Neglecting warning signs can be threat to life in some cases and therefore seeking immediate medical attention is preferable. Each time you will run a new experience will make you stronger.