What is Footstrike Hemolysis
Footstrike hemolysis happens when red blood cells in the foot break down faster than usual. This is usually due to repeated contact between the foot and the ground.
This condition often happens to long-distance runners. It can also happen to other athletes, including dancers and hikers. This condition may also be called march hemoglobinuria.
This condition may cause part of the red blood cells (hemoglobin) to appear in the urine, making the urine red (hematuria). In most cases, the body can make enough new red blood cells to replace the damaged cells.
If the body cannot replace red blood cells quickly enough, the blood will not carry enough oxygen throughout the body (anemia). This can cause fatigue and weakness.
What are the causes?
Footstrike hemolysis is caused by one or both of the following factors:
- Repetitive force to the bottom of the foot.
- Increased pressure in the foot muscles.
Exercising for a long time, doing high-intensity exercise, and having increased body temperature when exercising may contribute to this condition.
What increases the risk?
You may be more likely to develop this condition if you:
- Run long distances.
- Run on hard surfaces.
- Wear shoes that are not supportive or are worn out.
- Lack iron in your diet.
- Are overweight.
What are the signs or symptoms?
In some cases, footstrike hemolysis may not cause any symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they may include:
- Fatigue and weakness.
- Shortness of breath and dizziness.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Hematuria.
- Reduced athletic performance or endurance. Endurance is the ability to use your muscles for a long time, even after they get tired.
How is this diagnosed?
This condition may be diagnosed based on your symptoms, your medical history, and a physical exam. You may also have blood tests done.
How is this treated?
This condition may be treated by modifying your physical activity in order to place less stress on your feet. Your health care provider may recommend that you take iron supplements. If you are overweight, your health care provider may recommend that you lose weight.
Follow these instructions at home:
Activity
- Return to your normal activities as told by your health care provider. Ask your health care provider what activities are safe for you.
- Do notmake sudden increases in the frequency or intensity of your physical activity.
- Wear supportive shoes that are in good condition. Use shock-absorbing insoles to reduce the impact on your feet.
- When possible, do physical activity on soft surfaces and in cool temperatures.
General instructions
- Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
- Take supplements only as recommended by your health care provider.
- If you had blood tests done, it is your responsibility to get your test results. Ask your health care provider or the department performing the test when your results will be ready.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.
How is this prevented?
- Wear comfortable and supportive footwear when participating in physical activity.
- Give your body time to rest between periods of activity.
Contact a health care provider if:
- You experience unexplained fatigue that interferes with your ability to exercise or to do your normal activities.
- Your urine is red or bloody.
