What is a primary symptom of acute exertional rhabdomyolysis?

Acute exertional rhabdomyolysis is characterized primarily by the breakdown of muscle tissue, which leads to the release of myoglobin into the bloodstream. This condition often results in darkened urine, a hallmark symptom indicative of myoglobinuria, where the urine may appear tea-colored or cola-colored due to the presence of myoglobin. Additionally, muscle weakness is commonly experienced because the muscle fibers are damaged and unable to function normally.

While other options mention symptoms like rapid heart rate, excessive sweating, or dizziness, these are not the defining characteristics of acute exertional rhabdomyolysis. Darkened urine and muscle weakness are specifically tied to the underlying muscle damage and its metabolic consequences, making them the primary symptoms for this condition. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention to prevent serious complications.