24-year-old Nayeli Clemente, an avid athlete and gym enthusiast, collapsed while participating in a fitness challenge in Mexico. That day, temperatures reached 96°F (35°C) during the Cholula Games, a CrossFit event that includes running, weightlifting, and gymnastics.
In the middle of the Team Pyramid Run, where members alternated between longer runs, she suddenly had difficulty breathing and lost consciousness. Medical staff immediately resuscitated her before taking her to the hospital, but she could not be saved. According to her sister, Nayeli suffered a heart attack after suffering a stroke.
Dr. Karlo Baybayan explained that hot weather makes it difficult for the body to regulate temperature, which makes it harder for the heart to work harder, especially during physical activities. When there is a lack of water and electrolytes, blood flow can be affected and cause cardiac arrest or stroke.
Doctors also warn that athletes, the elderly, children, and those with heart disease or diabetes are more at risk when exposed to heat. Regular screening is important to detect hidden conditions in the body.
