The anticipation before the opening whistle, the decisive plays and the fierce competition can turn a simple football match into a true emotional rollercoaster for fans. On important game days, it is common for many people to feel their heart racing, their hands sweating and even a feeling of shortness of breath. Although these reactions are natural in the face of adrenaline and anxiety, some symptoms may indicate that the emotion is exceeding healthy limits.

According to cardiologist Dr. Wesley Cássio de Souza, professor of the Medicine course at Faculdade Pitágoras, situations of strong emotional stress They cause the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which increase heart rate and blood pressure.

“During a competition, the body is expected to react to stress and expectation. The heart beats faster, breathing may become more rapid and the person may feel a greater state of alert. Most of the time, this is temporary and does not represent a problem. However, when symptoms are intense, persistent or accompanied by other signs, it is important to seek medical evaluation”, he explains.

Palpitations, characterized by the sensation of accelerated, strong or irregular heartbeats, are one of the most frequent complaints during periods of great emotional tension and may be related to cardiac changes that require investigation.

When can emotion pose a risk?

The cardiologist highlights that some symptoms deserve special attention, especially in people with a history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol or a family history of heart problems.

“Not every palpitation means a heart disease. However, if a person experiences pain or pressure in the chest, significant shortness of breath, intense dizziness, a feeling of fainting, excessive sweating, nausea or loss of consciousness, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately”, warns Dr. Wesley Cássio de Souza.

Another point of attention is when the heart rate remains very high even after the game has ended or when episodes become frequent. “If symptoms do not improve after a few minutes of rest or if they occur repeatedly, it is recommended to carry out an evaluation to rule out arrhythmias or other cardiovascular conditions”, he adds.

Common symptoms related to anxiety

Anxiety activates physiological mechanisms that can cause symptoms similar to those of heart problems, which often generates even greater concern in patients. “The brain does not completely differentiate a real physical threat from an emotionally intense situation. Therefore, the body responds by releasing substances that prepare the body to act, increasing heart rate and blood pressure”, explains Dr. Wesley Cássio de Souza.

Among the most common symptoms related to anxiety, the doctor highlights:

• Palpitations;
• Feeling of tightness in the chest;
• Rapid breathing;
• Tremors;
• Sweating;
• Muscle tension;
• Feeling of restlessness;
• Intense fear or feeling that something bad is going to happen.

What to do when you experience symptoms?

If you notice signs of anxiety or palpitations during a game, some simple measures can help control the situation. “Momentarily interrupting the stressful stimulus, sitting in a quiet place and focusing on breathing usually helps a lot. Inhaling slowly through the nose and exhaling through the mouth in a controlled manner helps to reduce the activation of the nervous system and reduce the heart rate”, advises the cardiologist.

Other recommendations include:

• Avoid excess caffeine, energetic and alcoholic beverages before and during the game;
• Stay hydrated;
• Do not watch the match fasting;
• Get adequate sleep the night before;
• Take breaks if you notice an excessive increase in anxiety;
• Correctly follow the treatment of already diagnosed cardiovascular diseases.

By Camila Souza Crepaldi