Understanding Physiological Conditions and Physical Activity

Physiological Shortcomings

Physiological shortcomings are those characterized by the malfunctioning of any organ or system, such as diabetes, epilepsy, spinal issues, asthma, and obesity.

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is a pathological imbalance of blood glucose.

• Our body gets energy from food.
• Glucose circulates in the blood, but to be used by our cells, it needs the help of the hormone insulin, which is secreted by the pancreas. This hormone is a key that allows the passage of glucose into cells, thus providing them with energy.
• When the pancreas does not secrete insulin, diabetes occurs.

Types of Diabetes

• Insulin-dependent (Type 1): Specific damage to insulin-producing cells, with a genetic origin. The only way to regulate metabolism is to inject insulin, as there is no secretion of this hormone.
• Non-insulin-dependent (Type 2): More frequent and often appears in adulthood. It is a kind of insulin resistance due to an abnormality in tissue sensitivity to insulin. This leads to an increased secretion of insulin from the pancreas, eventually leading to exhaustion. It is treated with drugs, diet, and exercise.

Imbalances

• Hypoglycemia (Insulin Shock)
  • Sharp decrease in glucose.
  • Symptoms: Cold sweat, shaking, nervousness, aggression, hunger, weakness.
  • Treatment: Take immediate absorption sugars.
• Hyperglycemia (Diabetic Coma)
  • Excessive increase in blood glucose.
  • Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, thirst, fatigue, rapid breathing.
  • Treatment: Injection of insulin.

Currently, physical activity and sports practices are recommended, as, when controlled with diet, they are one of the mainstays of treatment.

Practical Considerations for Physical Activity

• Eat something before exercise to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia with exercise.
• Ensure good hydration.
• Avoid exercise during the peak action of insulin.
• Learn to recognize the reactions of glucose.
• Diabetic foot: Be aware of neuropathy, which can cause a lack of pain sensation in the feet.

2. Obesity

Obesity is a physiological condition characterized by an abnormal increase in body fat that affects health and well-being (WHO).

• It is a complex syndrome where a number of factors are linked, such as lifestyle, sedentary behavior, carnivorous diet, and endocrine and genetic factors.
• It carries many risks and complications, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and increased mortality.

Practical Considerations

• Insufficient knowledge of body schema.
• Musculoskeletal overload.
• Poor coordination and balance.
• Lack of mobility (poor psychomotor development).
• Calculate BMI (Body Mass Index) = kg/m²

Practical Considerations for Physical Activity

• Promote regular physical activity related to eating and exercise habits that affect physical health and quality of life.
• Increase physical education sessions, developing aerobic endurance.
• Avoid violent efforts, reducing joint impact.
• Limit continuous running, jumping, etc., to prevent foot and knee injuries.

Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory diseases cause rapid fatigue of the respiratory muscles and the body in general.

Bronchial Asthma

Bronchial asthma is a pulmonary disease characterized by airway obstruction and inflammation of the bronchi, leading to symptoms such as cough, wheezing, runny nose, and fatigue.

Practical Considerations

• Develop muscles involved in breathing: abdomen, trunk, back.
• Propose breathing control and relaxation activities.
• Encourage nasal breathing and long, warm exhalations.
• Avoid physical activity in certain environments.
• Use an inhaler as needed.

Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary genetic disorder that affects the properties of mucus, making it excessively viscous, difficult to expel, and causing clogged ducts. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation.

Practical Considerations

• Engage in activities that develop respiratory muscles.
• Perform aerobic activities that increase the clearance of mucus.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disease in which abnormal electrical discharges produce sudden, brief episodes of altered consciousness, motor activity, and misconduct.

• It is like a short circuit in the brain, reflected in seizures or tremors.
• A seizure goes through three phases:
  • Preconvulsant: Dizziness, vomiting.
  • Convulsive: 2 seconds with loss of consciousness.
  • Postconvulsive: 4 or 5 seconds of recovery and return to normal.

Practical Considerations

• Physical activity can decrease the frequency of crises.
• Avoid overexertion, situations of anxiety, hyperventilation, falls, blows, and injuries.
• In case of a crisis:
  • Clear the area.
  • Protect the head.
  • Place the person on their side to avoid asphyxiation from vomiting.
  • Loosen clothing.
  • Do not suppress movements.
  • Do not put anything in the mouth.
  • Do not give water.
  • Lips may turn blue due to lack of oxygenation.
• Outdoor activities should be done carefully.