SUDDEN DEATH in the Young
According to James Davis, RN, MA, EMT-P with the Columbus Ohio Division of Fire and a flight RN for Medflight of Ohio, very seldom do EMT or first responders suspect heart issues in young athletes who are being resusitated. They suspect that their friends are lying about drug/alcohol use possibilities because a young, healthy- appearing kid should not be having cardiac problems. However, in the US some 200-300 young people die each year from cardiovascular events during physical exercise. What causes a healthy child, teen or young adult to suffer fatal cardiac arrest? Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Commotio Cordis, Coronary Anomalies, Infectious Causes, Long QT Syndrome and Brugada, Bronchospasm. Medications such as ephedrine can be the culprit, as well as cocaine.
This article goes on to say how important it is that we educate our schools, coaches, parents, sports clubs and athletes themselves that sudden death can occur in even the healthiest apprearing athletes. AED’s need to be at sporting events, CPR trained personnel, as well as access to advanced care. Athletes need to be encouraged to report problems without fear of penalty from coaches and parents. Filling out a detailed medical history is the first step, then, depending on any concerns, a 12-lead EKG should be used as a part of the physical exam. To read more, click on the link below:
