High School Athletes: Taking Heart Health Seriously

As the new school year kicks off, high school athletes across the country are gearing up for their respective sports seasons. While the excitement of competition is palpable, it’s crucial for these young athletes to prioritize their heart health. Recent studies have shown that heart-related issues, although rare, can have serious consequences if not addressed early. 

Symptoms to Watch For

Parents, coaches, and athletes themselves should be vigilant about potential warning signs of heart problems. Symptoms to look out for include:

• Chest Pain: Unexplained chest pain or discomfort during physical activity.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, particularly when it occurs suddenly or is more severe than expected.
• Fainting or Dizziness: Experiencing fainting spells or unexplained dizziness, especially during or after exercise.
• Irregular Heartbeats: Noticeable heart palpitations or an unusually rapid or slow heartbeat.
• Excessive Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired or fatigued during or after exercise, beyond the usual exertion levels.

Importance of Prescreening

Prescreening can play a vital role in identifying potential heart issues before they become serious. Various methods are available to ensure an athlete’s heart is fit for the demands of sports:

• Electrocardiograms (EKG/ECG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect irregularities.
• Echocardiograms: An ultrasound of the heart that can reveal structural abnormalities.
• Stress Tests: Monitors the heart’s function under physical exertion.
• Physical Exams: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to discuss any symptoms or concerns.

Fredo Rodriguez Sosa, M.D., an internist at the Cigarroa Clinic, emphasizes the importance of these precautions. 

“Heart health should never be taken lightly, especially for young athletes who push their bodies to the limit,” says Dr. Rodriguez Sosa. “Prescreening can help detect issues early, ensuring that athletes can compete safely.”

Dr. Rodriguez Sosa also advises that any symptom, no matter how minor it may seem, should be checked out. 

“It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If an athlete experiences chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other concerning symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately.”

Taking Action

Schools and sports programs are encouraged to implement regular heart health screenings and educate athletes on the importance of recognizing and reporting symptoms. Creating a culture of safety and awareness can help prevent tragic outcomes and ensure that young athletes can enjoy their sports while maintaining optimal health.

As high school sports seasons begin, let’s make heart health a top priority. By taking these steps, we can help safeguard the well-being of our young athletes and support their athletic endeavors with confidence.