Runner’s Death Blamed on Too Much Fluid
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MASSACHUSETTS
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The death of a 28-year-old runner in this year’s Boston Marathon was caused by a critical sodium imbalance brought on in part by drinking too much fluid, according to the state medical examiner.
Cynthia Lucero died of hyponatremic encephalopathy, which happens when the brain becomes swollen because of an imbalance of sodium, the medical examiner said.
“This is a relatively rare, catastrophic complication,” said Dr. Ronenn Roubenoff, associate professor of medicine and nutrition at Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center at Tufts University.
Friends said Lucero drank large amounts of Gatorade and looked well for most of the April 16 race.
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