Cola-coloured urine, then a pounding heart: How a 20-year-old took workouts too far

A 20-year-old patient arrived at Sparsh Hospital with severe arrhythmia and fainting episodes. He had recently returned to intense workouts after months of inactivity, preparing for the Pulikalli festival. His urine turned cola-coloured, a potential sign of rhabdomyolysis. This condition occurs when muscles break down excessively due to intense exercise, releasing toxic substances into the bloodstream.

Myoglobin, a red protein within muscle cells, can contaminate urine, causing it to appear dark brown or cola-colored. Severe muscle breakdown can also release potassium, which, if unregulated by the kidneys, can disrupt the heart's electrical activity, leading to dangerous arrhythmias or even cardiac arrest. Rhabdomyolysis, though rare, is a serious medical emergency that can affect both the heart and kidneys.

To prevent rhabdomyolysis, individuals should gradually reintroduce exercise and maintain proper hydration, especially during hot weather.