Lactic acid how long does it last

We also outline other causes of lactate buildup and lactic acidosis. A buildup of lactic acid in the muscles during or following exercise is not harmful. In fact, some experts believe it can be beneficial. In small amounts, lactic acid can:. However, many people find that the muscle pain and cramps from lactic acid buildup negatively affects their workouts.

Keeping the body hydrated during exercise gives it the best chance of breaking down any excess lactic acid. People can ensure they stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. The body starts to produce lactic acid when it is low in the oxygen necessary to convert glucose into energy. Breathing deeply will help deliver oxygen to the muscles, thereby slowing the production of lactic acid.

When a person feels the effects of lactic acid buildup, they can slow down and reduce the intensity of their workout. This will allow blood oxygen levels to recover.

Lightly stretching the muscles after a workout can help to alleviate any burning sensations or cramps that lactic acid buildup may cause. In most cases, lactic acid buildup is a harmless response to strenuous exercise and will go away on its own. Once the body has used the resulting lactate for energy, the liver breaks down any excess in the blood.

For a long time, experts thought that lactic acid was responsible for delayed onset muscle soreness DOMS following exercise. However, experts no longer believe this is the case. Instead, they now say that DOMS pain and stiffness is the result of microscopic damage to muscle fibers. Certain health conditions can lower blood oxygen levels, resulting in increased lactate production.

These conditions include:. This can result in high blood lactate levels, which doctors call hyperlactatemia. In some cases, hyperlactatemia can progress to lactic acidosis. This alteration can result in severe health complications. Lactic acidosis is also a rare side effect of some HIV medications. Anyone who thinks they have lactic acidosis or nonexercise-induced hyperlactatemia should speak to a doctor straightaway.

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Knowledge awaits. See Subscription Options Already a subscriber? Create Account See Subscription Options. DOMS is a type of muscle conditioning, which means your muscles are adapting to the new activity. The next time you perform the same activity or exercise at the same intensity, there'll be less muscle tissue damage, less soreness, and a faster recovery.

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NHS Fitness Studio. Find out how to better manage your sore muscles after exercise. Why do my muscles feel sore after exercising?

Who can DOMS affect? What type of activities can cause DOMS?