After competing in the swimming events at the Paris Olympics, a few American swimmers had purple hues on their faces, which caused a lot of controversy and mistrust from the spectators.
What is the cause?
Sports video blogger Fares Ksebati clarified that the purple coloration on the face is caused by the intensity of the activity and that facial discoloration is frequently associated with heart and lung function.
Ksebati explained: “After high-intensity exercise, energy is converted into heat, and the body attempts to regulate temperature by dilating facial blood vessels, which can result in a red or purple appearance. This can last for a few minutes or longer but is usually temporary and not harmful.”
He also emphasized the possibility that ambient conditions and high-intensity exercise could have an impact on the change in skin tone during swimming. Ksebati added that rosacea, a persistent but manageable ailment, may be contributing to the discolouration.
Luo Chaofan, a rehabilitation therapist with the National Health Commission, told Global Times that playing high-intensity sports causes the body to use a lot more oxygen. Athletes may get tissue hypoxia, which can give them a purple face, if they are unable to replace oxygen in time. Luo said: “This condition is usually temporary and can quickly be resolved once the athlete rests and adjusts their breathing.”
However, the American swimming team maintained its purple color, even during the awards ceremony. Concerns have also been raised by the small number of drug tests that have been performed on American athletes. While the American team claims that their rigorous training is the basis for fewer examinations, some contend that this raises questions about fairness.