Comparative Analysis of Functional and Pathological Changes in the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems of Athletes During Heat Stroke

Matanat Ganiyeva^1* , Shalala Mammadova¹ , Mehriban Guliyeva¹

Abstract. In modern sports, athletes are often exposed to intense physical loads in order to achieve high performance. When these loads are carried out in conditions of high temperature. When these loads are carried out in conditions of high temperature and humidity, they can cause significant functional changes in the body. In particular, in high–intensity sports such as basketball and football, more heat is produced in the body. At the same time, the body^’s ability to regulate temperature becomes more difficult, which affects the functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Therefore, studying the effects of heat stress on the body in different types of sports in a comparative way is of great scientific and practical importance. The aim of the study was to determine the characteristics of changes in the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of basketball and football players under heat conditions, as well as their pathophysiological mechanisms. A total of 60 athletes aged 18‒25 were included in the study. Physical load was modeled under conditions of high temperature and humidity. During the observation, main hemodynamic and respiratory parameters, heat balance, and metabolic state were assessed. The analysis showed that in response to heat stress, adaptive mechanisms in the body are activated. This is mainly expressed by increased strain on the cardiovascular system and faster breathing. At the same time, in some cases these adaptive mechanisms are not sufficient, leading to pathological changes such as hypovolemia, hyperthermia, rhythm disturbances, and metabolic imbalance. Differences between types of sports were mainly related to the nature and duration of physical load, as well as environmental conditions. Thus, the results show that the effects of heat stress on athletes are complex and may include both adaptation and harmful changes. Therefore, proper planning of training in hot conditions and the use of preventive measures are essential.

Keywords: heat stroke, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, dehydration, basketball, football