You’re on the field, giving it your all, and suddenly, without warning an athlete collapses. No impact, no visible injury – just down. This could be Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), a life-threatening condition where the heart unexpectedly stops beating. Unlike a heart attack, which is caused by a blockage, SCA is usually due to an electrical issue in the heart, making it impossible to pump blood to vital organs.
Why Are Athletes at Risk?
You might think that being young and in peak physical condition means your heart is invincible. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. High-intensity sports can sometimes trigger undiagnosed heart conditions, and the more strain you put on your heart, the higher the risk. Certain genetic disorders, heart abnormalities, and even dehydration can increase the chances of SCA happening.
Warning Signs – Don’t Ignore the Red Flags
The scary part? SCA can happen with little to no warning. However, in some cases, there are subtle signs you shouldn’t ignore:
- Unexplained fainting or dizziness
- Shortness of breath, even when you’re in good shape
- Irregular heartbeats or chest pain
- A family history of heart conditions or sudden death
If you or a teammate experience any symptoms like this or you have known heart conditions in your family, take them seriously. See a doctor and get your heart checked out before pushing through another game or training session.
How to Prevent SCA in Athletes
While SCA is unpredictable, there are ways to reduce the risk and improve survival rates.
Get Regular Heart Screenings
A simple heart screening can detect many of the hidden conditions that cause SCA. Electrocardiograms (ECGs) and echocardiograms help identify heart abnormalities before they become a serious problem. If you’re an athlete, especially one competing at a high level, consider getting screened – don’t just assume you’re fine.
Know Your Family History
Genetics play a major role in heart health. If someone in your family has had heart problems, don’t wait until it’s too late. Inform your doctor so they can assess whether you’re at risk and if additional testing is needed.
Train Smart, Not Just Hard
Overtraining and dehydration put stress on the heart. Make sure you’re staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and listening to your body. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Missing one training session is better than pushing too hard and putting yourself at risk.
Have AEDs Readily Available
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) save lives. If SCA strikes, an AED delivers a shock to restart the heart. Many schools, gyms, and sports facilities now have them, but not enough people know how to use them. Learning CPR and how to operate an AED can be the difference between life and death in an emergency.
Encourage a Heart-Safe Culture in Sports
Coaches, teammates, and staff should be educated about SCA and how to respond. Regular emergency drills and CPR training should be a standard part of every sports program. Being prepared means knowing how to act fast.
What to Do If Someone Collapses?
If you ever witness an athlete collapse unexpectedly, here’s what to do:
Check for responsiveness – Tap them and shout their name.
Call emergency services (000) – Time is critical.
Start CPR immediately – Push hard and fast in the centre of the chest.
Use an AED/defibrillator if available – Follow the device’s prompts.
Continue CPR until help arrives – Every second counts.
Be Proactive, Stay Safe
SCA is rare but devastating. The best way to protect yourself and your teammates is through awareness, regular health checks, and proper training. No game is worth risking your life. Take care of your heart, look out for warning signs, and be prepared for emergencies.
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