As people rush to shed the extra pounds gained over Chinese New Year, one man’s attempt at fitness took a dangerous turn. A man from Henan, China, suffered a collapsed lung after doing just 20 push-ups followed by a rope-skipping session.
According to a video on Douyin, the man initially felt what seemed like muscle strain in his chest the morning after his workout. However, his condition worsened throughout the day, making it difficult for him to breathe—especially when climbing stairs. When sharp pain spread across his chest, feeling as if his ribs were being torn apart, he rushed to the hospital.
Doctors diagnosed him with spontaneous pneumothorax, a condition where air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. Scans revealed a small hole in his right lung, shrinking it to just one-third of its normal size. While initially minor, doctors warned that the hole could expand, leading to severe pressure on his heart and lungs—potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Fortunately, he sought medical help in time to prevent further complications.
Exercise Should Be Done in Moderation
A research paper from the National Library of Medicine highlights the risks of lung injuries from intense physical activity. Heavy breathing during strenuous exercise increases lung pressure and blood volume, which can cause fragile capillaries to rupture. Experts advise against extreme or sudden high-intensity workouts, particularly for those unaccustomed to vigorous exercise.
This incident serves as a reminder that gradual and moderate exercise is key to avoiding unexpected health risks.