Sudden Death Syndrome is the sudden unexpected death of adolescents and adults. The events are defined as non-traumatic, non-violent, unexpected occurrences resulting from cardiac arrest within as little as six hours of previously witnessed normal health.
It is estimated that approximately 80% of all non-traumatic sudden deaths in young competitive athletes are due to inherited / congenital structural or functional cardiovascular abnormalities.Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) accounts for 40-50% of all such deaths.
Sporty youngsters stress their hearts the most. If they have an underlying cardiac abnormality they are more likely to be at risk. Sport itself does not lead to cardiac arrest but it can act as a trigger for a young person to die suddenly by exacerbating an undetected condition.
Undergoing a cardiac screening is a simple way to diagnoses most cardiac abnormalities. TheEuropean Society of Cardiology (ESC 2005) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) recommend cardiac screening for any young person taking part in competitive sport. It is also recommended if there have been any young sudden deaths in the family or if there are symptoms of chest pain, severe breathlessness, palpitations, prolonged dizziness, fainting /blackouts. The screening includes an ECG reported by a cardiologist and it also may include anechocardiogram and cardiac risk evaluation blood test.
The majority of young sudden cardiac deaths are due to inherited forms of heart muscle disorder and irregular heart beat. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is the most common of these conditions. Research in the USA by Dr Barry Maron shows that 1 in 500 people have Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.
By undergoing heart tests most of the abnormalities that can lead to sudden death can be diagnosed.
An Electrocardiogram (ECG), looks at the electrical conduction pathways around the heart. Small stickers known as
electrodes are placed on the client’s chest and the wires connect to an ECG machine whilst you lie still. A printout of the heart’s electrical activity is obtained for evaluation by the cardiologist. This test is painless, non-invasive and takes a matter of a few minutes to perform
An Exercise Treadmill Test, also known as an exercise electrocardiogram, exercise electrocardiography or exercise stress testing. An exercise ECG is an electrocardiogram that is recorded while you are exercising on a treadmill (a running machine) or on an exercise bike.
An Echocardiogram (Echo) is an ultrasound test (such as offered to pregnant women) which looks at the structure of the heart. From the information provided on screen, measurements are taken which give a guide to muscle thickness and size of the chambers of the heart. Again, this test is non-invasive and takes a matter of a few minutes to perform.
Avoid Sudden Death Cardiac Check-up includes: