Study Reveals 29% of Athletes Exhibit Symptoms Prior to Sudden Cardiac Arrest

According to research published in the CMAJ, 29% of cardiac arrests in athletes exhibited warning signs before the event. It’s important to recognize the following red-flag symptoms:

29 Percent of Athletes Show Symptoms Before Sudden Cardiac Arrests: A Study Says
29 Percent of Athletes Show Symptoms Before Sudden Cardiac Arrests: A Study Says

It’s increasingly common for young runners and healthy individuals to experience sudden cardiac arrests during marathons or sports events. However, it is possible for some individuals to have sudden cardiac arrests without exhibiting any symptoms beforehand. A review conducted by the CMAJ highlighted various research studies and provided guidelines for managing such incidents. According to the report, the incidence rate of sudden cardiac arrests in athletes is 0.75 per 100,000 cases per year. Interestingly, most athletes experience cardiac arrests while at rest rather than during exercise. The study was conducted by Dr. Paul Dorian, Director of the Division of Cardiology at the University of Toronto.

What are the causes of cardiac arrests

What are the causes of cardiac arrests

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart’s rhythm stops due to a blockage, often caused by a clot obstructing blood flow to the heart. According to the American Heart Association, nearly 90% of sudden cardiac arrest cases result in immediate death. While there are no specific triggers for cardiac arrest, the primary cause remains a clot in the artery supplying blood to the heart, akin to a plumbing issue with fatal consequences.

What are the causes of cardiac arrests

It is crucial to recognize potential triggers and individuals at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Certain warning signs are associated with this condition, including:

  1. Sudden shortness of breath during physical activity
  2. Chest tightness
  3. Unusual pressure, pain, or discomfort during exercise
  4. Loss of consciousness during workouts
  5. Elevated heart rate or palpitations
  6. Dizziness, near fainting, or lightheadedness during exercise

Anyone experiencing these symptoms during exercise should seek medical evaluation to rule out the possibility of cardiac arrest. However, despite the gravity of the situation, there are currently no standardized screenings for individuals with minimal or no prior heart issues. Given the increasing incidence of such cases, it is imperative for athletes to undergo regular check-ups and answer pertinent questions regarding their health history, including family history of heart diseases and incidents of sudden cardiac arrest among relatives.

What are the causes of cardiac arrests

In instances of cardiac arrest among athletes, the presence of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at major sporting events is crucial. AEDs deliver an electric shock to the heart, restoring its rhythm and increasing the chances of survival. Rapid access to AEDs has significantly improved outcomes for such patients.