# What is Rhabdomyolysis? Rare Muscle Condition Linked to 24-Year-Old Runner's Death

> 24-year-old marathon runner Rachel Apa died from rhabdomyolysis, a rare muscle breakdown condition.
- Title: What is Rhabdomyolysis? Rare Muscle Condition Linked to…
- Summary: 24-year-old marathon runner Rachel Apa died from rhabdomyolysis, a rare muscle breakdown condition. Rachel Apa, 24, died after collapsing during the New York…
- Keywords: rhabdomyolysis, new york marathon, rachel apa, marathon runner, muscle condition, kidney failure, heat-related injury, LADbible
- Source: LADbible — https://ladbible.com/news/us-news/what-is-rhabdomyolysis-rare-muscle-condition-rachel-apa-death-166608-20261104
- Published: 2026-11-04T01:35:11.927+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: rhabdomyolysis, new york marathon, rachel apa, marathon runner, muscle condition, kidney failure, heat-related injury, entertainment, culture, news
## Rachel Apa's Death
Rachel Apa, 24, died after falling ill two miles from the New York Marathon finish line.

> Perfect health, perfect shape, 24 years old.
## Rhabdomyolysis Explained
Rhabdomyolysis is a rare muscle condition causing muscle breakdown and organ damage.

> Rhabdomyolysis is a life-threatening condition that can happen after an injury or excessive exercise without rest.
## Symptoms of Rhabdomyolysis
Symptoms include weak muscles, swelling, sore muscles, and dark urine.

> Dark pee that is brown, red or 'tea-coloured'.
## Doctor's Warning
Warmer weather increases rhabdomyolysis risk, especially with fatigue or sleep deprivation.

> If you were recently ill, or if you are even sleep-deprived, these are things that potentially all put you at risk for heat-related injury.
## Rising Cases
Doctors report a rise in rhabdomyolysis cases among endurance runners since 2022.

> Since 2022, doctors have seen a rise in rhabdomyolysis in endurance runners.
## What Happens Next
Runners should stop if they feel weak, dizzy, or lightheaded.

> If you’re finding that your body feels weak or that you feel like you know you’re feeling dizzy, I think it’s probably a moment to maybe slow down or even stop and find attention.
## Key takeaway

Rachel Apa, 24, died after collapsing during the New York Marathon due to rhabdomyolysis, a rare muscle condition causing organ damage.