Workout Warning Signs

As Spain mourns the sudden death of soccer player Antonio Puerta, 22, international attention is being focused on the health screening of professional athletes. But no matter what your fitness level, you should be having regular check-ups with a physician and on the lookout for warning signs, even if you’re seemingly in perfect health.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop working out and contact your doctor immediately!

• Chest pain, pressure, or tightness
• Unusually rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting
• Severe headache

These symptoms are often overlooked by active people. But they could be signals of heart disease, arrhythmia, thyroid disorder, asthma, cerebral aneurysm, or stroke. Don’t take your chances—see a doctor.