What is a risk factor for acute exertional rhabdomyolysis?

Acute exertional rhabdomyolysis (AER) is a serious condition that occurs when muscle tissue breaks down and releases its contents into the bloodstream, often due to intense physical exertion, particularly in those unaccustomed to such exercise. One significant risk factor for this condition is having sickle cell trait. Individuals with sickle cell trait have altered hemoglobin that can lead to red blood cell sickling under conditions of extreme exertion, dehydration, or high temperatures, which in turn can cause reduced blood flow, muscle ischemia, and ultimately muscle breakdown. This is seen especially in athletes or individuals who engage in strenuous physical activity without proper acclimatization or hydration.

While age over 30, being overweight, and low physical activity levels can contribute to health risks in general, they do not have the same direct link to the physiological mechanisms that lead to acute exertional rhabdomyolysis as having sickle cell trait does. Understanding the specific physiological implications of sickle cell trait helps in identifying individuals at higher risk during high-intensity exercise.