What Causes Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) In Athletes?

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in athletes is a high-impact, low-probability event. It is the leading cause of exercise-induced death in young competitive athletes. This cardiac arrest accounts for 75 percent of fatalities during exercise or sports. However, given their high fitness level and youth, often correlated with healthy hearts, it does come as a surprise. But what causes sudden cardiac arrest in athletes?

Continue reading to know the red flags pointed out by the top heart failure cardiologists.

Fact: One in 50,000 to one in 80,000 young athletes die every year of SCA.

What is It?

SCA is an electrical malfunction. It makes the heart stop abruptly. It is not the same as a heart attack. How do the two differ? A heart attack is a circulatory issue stemming from a blocked artery. In SCA, the person suddenly loses consciousness. It ceases breathing. Doctors call it a sudden cardiac death, as patients do not survive.

Top heart failure cardiologists recommend a quick response with the following

1. Automated external defibrillator (AED)
2. CPR

These can help restore the heart rhythm.

Causes

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

• It is a genetic condition.
• HCM causes the heart muscle to thicken.
• The thickening can block blood flow.
• It can also cause abnormal heart rhythms.
• HCM is a common cause of SCA in young athletes.
• It is often undiagnosed because it is genetic.

Congenital Heart Defects

• Some athletes have heart defects from birth.
• These defects can disrupt normal blood flow.
• They can lead to abnormal heart rhythms.
• Abnormal rhythms can cause SCA.
• Regular check-ups can help detect these defects early.

Myocarditis

• It is inflammation of the heart muscle.
• Viral infections are the primary causes.
• Inflammation can damage the heart muscle.
• This damage can lead to SCA.
• Athletes are at risk because they may push through illness.
• Overexertion can also increase risk.

Commotio Cordis

• Commotio cordis is rare.
• It happens when a sudden impact on the chest disrupts the heart’s rhythm.
• This is a risk in contact sports.
• Sports like cricket, hockey, and football are high risk.

Long QT Syndrome

• It affects the heart’s electrical activity.
• It causes sudden and uncontrollable heart rhythms.
• This condition can be inherited.
• Certain medications are also risk factors.
• Athletes may not show symptoms until a trigger occurs.
• Intense exercise can be a trigger.

Warning Signs Young Athletes Must Know

As per the heart specialists in Hyderabad, SCA does not come with a warning.

Sometimes, the athletes do have symptoms. These include

1. Chest pain
2. Extreme fatigue
3. Severe nausea
4. Shortness of breath
5. Extreme dizziness
6. Lightheadedness
7. Heart palpitations

Coaches and athletes both should be careful. Whenever any athlete shows these symptoms, immediate remedial action must be taken.

Note: SCA should always be considered a possible cause if an athlete loses consciousness.

Is It Possible to Detect SCA in Advance?

ECGs and EKGs can detect electrical disorders. They can also hint at latent heart issues that can put the athlete at risk. However, they do not predict the susceptibility of SCA.

Related : Heart Failure – Role Of Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Some preventive measures include

1. Routine health checkups
2. Regular heart screenings.
3. Knowing your family history.
4. Maintaining a healthy diet.
5. Exercising regularly
6. No smoking
7. Staying hydrated during intense physical activities
8. Paying attention to the body signals.
9. Working with qualified professionals
10. Having an emergency plan in place.

Tips to Save Someone Who Suffered a SCA

Here are some tips compiled by heart specialists in Hyderabad:

1. Have a preparedness plan ready.
2. Ensure someone trained in CPR is available.
3. Keep an AED accessible.
4. Start CPR immediately.
5. Aim for defibrillation within two to three minutes.

What’s Next for Athletes Who Survive SCA?

Here are the next steps that the athlete must take:

1. Undergo an in-depth cardiac examination.
2. Take scans to assess the blood flow to the brain.
3. Have your cardiac rhythm and function checked routinely.
4. Undergo routine tests for heart valve and congenital heart diseases.

After a thorough examination, athletes can resume play.

Note: The doctor will implant an Implantable Cardiovert Defibrillator device if the ongoing risk of ventricular tachycardia is high.

Conclusion

Sudden cardiac arrest in athletes is a life-threatening issue. It needs immediate attention. Increased awareness, regular screenings, and strong emergency response can help. This will ensure the safety and well-being of athletes across the country. Dr. Raghu, a renowned cardiologist from Hyderabad emphasizes the importance of these measures and advocates for their implementation nationwide.

Source Link : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1941738118799084?journalCode=spha