Every school year it seems there is another story about a young athlete collapsing mid-stride for no apparent reason. Almost always at the peak of their health, most of these athletes’ lives are cut far too short. According to John Beshai, MD, Cardiologist on staff at Adventist GlenOaks Hospital, this phenomenon isn’t just something that happens in some other state, at some other school or to some other family. The risks are real.

“Sudden cardiac arrest is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm which interferes with the heart’s ability to pump blood properly,” says Dr. Beshai. In young people, sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is almost always due to an inherited disease like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which results in an enlargement of the heart muscle.

“This condition results in the heart becoming enlarged as well as muscle fiber disarray causing the abnormal impulse conduction,” says Dr. Beshai. “That misalignment of muscle fibers can create a 'short circuit' and result in an abnormal heartbeat which can cause sudden cardiac arrest.” Unfortunately, sudden cardiac arrest may be the first event they experience which may be too late.

Awareness is best defense against SCA
High profile cases like the death of Chicago Bears defensive end Gaines Adams in January 2010 are helping to raise awareness about SCA, but according to Dr. Beshai there are still some misconceptions.

“Sudden cardiac arrest should not be confused with a heart attack,” he says. “Heart attacks occur from blockages in the arteries, where sudden cardiac arrest is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm.” 

While people at risk for heart attacks can help reduce the odds by adopting a heart healthy lifestyle like quitting smoking and eating a balanced diet, those at risk for sudden cardiac arrest may not have any warning signs until it’s too late. But, that doesn’t mean there is no hope.

“During their sports physical, students should be asked about their family history. If anyone in their family passed away due to a sudden cardiac event at a young age, that could be a signal that the student is at a higher risk for sudden cardiac arrest,” says Dr. Beshai.

In addition to family history, doctors will listen for heart murmurs or an irregular heartbeat. If there is any reason for concern, the next step is an EKG or echocardiogram to get a better look at the heart.

Dr. Beshai stresses that student athletes need to pay attention to their bodies, too. It is important to make sure your children know that if they experience any of the following symptoms, they should let their coach know right away:
• Palpitations
• Dizziness
• Chest pain

Right now, the best defense against SCA is education. Forums and classes, like the ones offered through Adventist Midwest Health, are a great resource for parents, coaches and athletes. Taking a basic CPR class, knowing your family’s heart health history and making sure your kids know to take potential warning signs seriously are all ways to help prevent sudden cardiac arrest.

Does your child need a sports physical? Call Adventist Midwest Health at 866-533-7968 to schedule an appointment with a physician.