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The occurrence of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) among young athletes is an alarming phenomenon that has recently been the focus of attention. Young athletes are the epitome of health and fitness and heart defects and lifestyle challenges are the reasons that an increasing number of individuals are experiencing cardiac events within the sporting community. In a conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Diwakar Kumar, Consultant - Cardiology, Asian hospital explained why heart failure cases are rising in young athletes.

Why Heart Failure Is Rising In Sports?

The underlying reason for SCA in athletes is the presence of undiagnosed structural or electrical abnormalities of the heart. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, congenital coronary artery anomalies, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy can be silent until the bed is shaken by rigorous exercise. High-performance, physically demanding sports challenge the cardiovascular system, increasing heart rate, blood pressure and demand for oxygen consumption which can expose faulty heart systems.

Another variable to consider is the fluctuating nature of sports training. Many young athletes today have demanding schedules with a strong emphasis on endurance, speed, and peak performance at an earlier age. While discipline and training are necessary for success, substantial physical demands without adequate rest can result in myocardial remodelling, scarring and arrhythmia. In some cases, overtraining syndrome paired with dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can pose a risk for fatal arrhythmia.

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Environmental and lifestyle factors have an important role. Using substances to enhance performance, using stimulants or even seemingly benign energy drinks can create even more strain on the heart. In addition to this additional strain, there is the added pressure to constantly push the limits of the individual athlete's body and despite the warning signs of the body, including unexplained chest pain, palpitations, fainting spells or uncomfortable shortness of breath, the athlete is encouraged to continue to perform. Disregarding these signs, could result in extremely tragic events.

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The rise in reported numbers may also suggest better awareness and better reporting systems, as events considered a "collapse" or "exhaustion" are now reported as a cardiac arrest, indicating to the need for preventative strategic measures.