Warning after popular gym machine leaves young woman fighting for her life in hospital: 'I felt a rip in my chest'

Fitness Devotee’s Near-Fatal Gym Incident: Aortic Dissection on Rowing Machine

A dedicated fitness enthusiast experienced a harrowing brush with death after suffering a ruptured aorta, the body’s main artery, while using a rowing machine at her gym. Marie-Anne August, 45, a self-described “fitness addict,” was engaged in a high-intensity workout when the life-threatening incident occurred, highlighting the potential risks even for individuals in peak physical condition. The experience underscores the critical importance of recognizing symptoms of serious conditions and seeking prompt medical attention.

Sudden Chest Pain During Workout

Last year, during an intense exercise session, Ms. August, a resident of Devon, felt a sudden, sharp pain in her chest. She described the sensation as a ‘ripping’ followed by a ‘bubbling feeling’. This alarming episode prompted an immediate visit to her local hospital.

Initial Misdiagnosis and Dismissal

Upon arrival at the hospital, medical professionals conducted several examinations, including blood tests and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess her heart’s electrical activity. Surprisingly, the test results were reported as normal. Consequently, Ms. August was discharged and given a clean bill of health, she recounted.

Worsening Condition and Further Hospital Visit

Within 48 hours, Ms. August’s condition deteriorated. Her family noted her declining state, observing that she “didn’t look right.” She experienced increasing breathing difficulties and severe pain. “I couldn’t breathe and the pain was absolutely excruciating,” stated Ms. August, who is employed in NHS communications.

Emergency Diagnosis: Aortic Dissection

Alarmed by her escalating symptoms, Ms. August returned to the hospital. This time, after further evaluation, she received a diagnosis of aortic dissection. This critical condition involves a tear in the aorta, the body’s primary artery, which can impede blood flow to vital organs and cause internal bleeding.

Understanding Aortic Dissection

Aortic dissection is recognized as a life-threatening medical emergency. The condition can precipitate a cascade of severe complications, including stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and even paralysis if blood supply to the spinal cord is compromised. According to NHS data, the mortality risk associated with untreated aortic dissection increases by 1 to 3 percent with each passing hour.

Risk Factors and Prevalence

While aortic dissection is more frequently observed in individuals over 65, affecting approximately 35 out of 100,000 people in that demographic annually, research indicates that endurance athletes, especially competitive rowers, face an elevated risk of experiencing this arterial tear. Activities like weightlifting and sprinting are also cited by the US National Institute of Health as potentially high-risk exercises.

Similar Case History

A similar instance was documented in 2018 by physicians at St George’s Hospital in London, involving a 27-year-old male patient who suffered an aortic dissection following an intense rowing workout, further emphasizing the link between vigorous exercise and this condition.

Emergency Open-Heart Surgery

Ms. August was urgently transferred to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth for emergency open-heart surgery. “I was absolutely terrified,” she admitted. She recounted the gravity of the situation only became apparent at the hospital when medical staff informed her that she had less than 24 hours to live and immediate surgical intervention was necessary.

Successful Operation and Recovery

Fortunately, the surgery was successful, and Ms. August was discharged within five days. “I think I recovered quicker than some. I was in so much pain post-operation for the first month that I couldn’t do much beyond going for slow walks with my dad,” she explained, highlighting her resilient recovery.

Long-Term Impact and Lifestyle Adjustments

Nearly a year has passed since her critical health event. Supported by family and friends, she has sufficiently recovered to resume her professional duties. However, despite being out of immediate danger, this fitness enthusiast must now abstain from certain demanding physical activities.

Limitations and Emotional Toll

Ms. August can no longer engage in high-speed running, skiing, or high-intensity exercise regimens, including CrossFit, which she previously enjoyed. “I have residual damage to my aorta so I need to watch what I do and monitor my blood pressure,” she noted. “I am trying to find my feet but overall I’m doing much better than expected.”

She expressed the significant emotional toll of these limitations: “But it’s such a change – from being someone who is quite fit and active – to all the things I can’t do. And that makes me very sad. Not being able to do what I did before is the biggest adjustment for me and with no real guidance as to what to do safely it causes a lot of fear.”

Rehabilitation and Future Outlook

Despite these challenges, Ms. August remains determined to regain her health within her new limitations. “But I’m pretty determined to figure out what I can do safely. My gym’s been really great helping me with cardiac rehab. And I’m determined to get back to full health if possible with my limitations.”

Call for Increased Medical Awareness

Ms. August is now advocating for enhanced awareness regarding the indicators of aortic rupture among hospital medical staff. “I do feel disappointed it wasn’t picked up initially now that I know how serious it was,” she stated. “It’s not the doctors’ fault, but more awareness and education within A&E is essential because many people aren’t as lucky as me.” She believes her pre-existing fitness level was crucial to her survival during the two days between her initial hospital visit and correct diagnosis.

Recognizing Symptoms of Aortic Dissection

Key symptoms of aortic dissection include abrupt, severe chest and/or back pain, shortness of breath, stroke-like symptoms such as speech difficulties and numbness, and loss of consciousness.

Hospital Response

A spokesperson for Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust stated: “Anyone who has concerns over the care they are receiving is encouraged to discuss this with the ward teams and ward matrons during their time at the hospital. Patients can also speak with our Patient Advice and Liaison Service for any unresolved concerns. Due to patient confidentiality, we are unable to discuss individual matters.”