By zp7op | Contributor
It may be hard to comprehend the idea of an active student-athlete facing a heart condition. Heart ailments are typically linked to older adults, yet it may be surprising to discover that hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death among young athletes. In fact, it accounts for 40% of such cases.
The American Heart Association estimates that 1 in every 500 adults in the U.S. has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, with many unaware of their condition. Over 80% of those with this disorder show no warning signs or symptoms prior to a sudden cardiac event. Although such events are rare, they can occur during physical activity or shortly after. Hence, it is crucial for student-athletes and their families to educate themselves about this condition and consult a physician regarding their risk.
Over 80% of those with this disorder show no warning signs or symptoms prior to a sudden cardiac event.
With adequate knowledge and the guidance of a capable medical team, individuals can effectively manage hypertrophic cardiomyopathy by adopting heart-healthy practices to avert complications or exacerbate conditions such as atrial fibrillation (an irregular or rapid heartbeat), stroke, or heart failure. The American Heart Association’s initiatives to raise awareness and educate athletes on hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are partly funded by a grant from the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation.
What is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most prevalent inherited heart disorder and can affect individuals of any age. It is characterized by the thickening and rigidity of the heart walls, which impairs the heart’s ability to fill and pump blood effectively.
This condition has various forms. Typically, people are affected by a type in which the wall dividing the heart’s two lower chambers (the septum) thickens, obstructing blood flow from the heart (obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
Alternatively, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can occur without significant blood flow obstruction (nonobstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). In this case, the main pumping chamber of the heart remains thickened and may become increasingly rigid, diminishing the volume of blood circulated with each heartbeat.
What are possible symptoms?
Symptoms may include:
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- heart palpitations
- fatigue
The intensity of symptoms can vary; however, if you experience any symptoms or have a family history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or sudden cardiac death, it is advisable to consult your doctor about being evaluated for the condition.
This condition is hereditary, hence first-degree relatives, including parents and siblings, should also be screened.
For some, symptoms may worsen over time, and new symptoms may arise, leading to greater challenges and a reduced ability to engage in activities they enjoy. This decline in functionality can be among the most difficult aspects of living with this disease. Keeping your healthcare team informed of any new or changing symptoms allows them to collaborate with you on a management plan to mitigate these effects.
How is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy diagnosed?
The diagnosis involves assessing medical history, family background, a physical examination, and diagnostic test results. One commonly used test is an echocardiogram, which evaluates the thickness of the heart muscle and monitors blood flow from the heart.
If any family member has been diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or other heart diseases or has been informed about thick heart walls, you should inform your doctor and consider the necessity for genetic testing. Due to the hereditary nature of this condition, first-degree relatives, including siblings and parents, should be evaluated.
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