Woman Hospitalized After ‘Intense’ Workout Turns Her Urine the Color of ‘Coca-Cola’: ‘I Could’ve Died’

Woman’s Urine Discolours to ‘Coca-Cola’ Shade Following Workout

A Scottish woman found herself hospitalised after her intense workout led to a severe muscle reaction, causing her urine to turn dark brown resembling “Coca-Cola”. Gemma Underwood, a 41-year-old karate practitioner, experienced significant muscle swelling and dark urine after a strenuous session in March. She struggled to get out of bed the next morning due to the extreme soreness. Consequently, she sought medical attention, leading to a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis – a serious muscle condition triggered by intense physical exertion.

Rhabdomyolysis is a rare muscular ailment where muscle breakdown occurs, potentially resulting in life-threatening consequences. The Cleveland Clinic highlights the condition as a severe one, typically arising post-injury or from excessive exercise without adequate rest. Underwood’s case of rhabdomyolysis was exacerbated by dehydration, according to doctors. Insufficient hydration during a rigorous workout can exacerbate rhabdomyolysis, leading to further complications.

During her five-day hospitalisation, Underwood received intravenous fluids and required a catheter due to the severity of her condition. Now back at home, she is undergoing extensive rest and hydration, with the recovery period estimated to last a few weeks to a few months contingent on any potential complications. Understanding the symptoms of rhabdomyolysis – including muscle weakness, pain, and dark urine – is crucial to prompt diagnosis and treatment, as emphasised by Underwood’s harrowing experience.

In sharing her ordeal, Underwood emphasised the importance of adequate hydration before engaging in any physical activity, regardless of its intensity. She expressed her fear at the thought of the potential fatal outcome of her condition, underscoring the necessity for vigilance and awareness when it comes to one’s health and fitness regimen. Reflecting on the incident, she cautioned others to remain mindful of their hydration levels and to heed any warning signs such as muscle pain and dark urine, potentially indicative of rhabdomyolysis.

The recovery journey from rhabdomyolysis involves strict adherence to rest and hydration, with any deviations potentially prolonging the healing process. Underwood’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of proper hydration and self-care in physical activities. Educating oneself about the warning signs and symptoms of muscular conditions like rhabdomyolysis is imperative to mitigate any potential risks associated with strenuous workouts.

While incidents like Underwood’s may seem isolated, they underscore the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to fitness that encompasses hydration, rest, and adequate recovery periods. As individuals strive to stay active and healthy, prioritising self-awareness and well-being can significantly impact one’s physical well-being and prevent unforeseen health complications. Underwood’s resilience in the face of this health scare serves as a testament to the importance of listening to one’s body and taking proactive steps to maintain overall health and fitness.