Open AccessSyncope and Near Syncope in Competitive Athletes
Author(s) -
Balakrishnan Natarajan,
Vineet Nikore
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
current sports medicine reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.424
H-Index - 51
eISSN - 1537-8918
pISSN - 1537-890X
DOI - 10.1097/01.csmr.0000306434.36606.43
Subject(s) - syncope (phonology) , medicine , athletes , sudden cardiac death , sudden death , population , cardiology , physical examination , physical therapy , environmental health
Syncope, although common among the general population, is rare among athletes. Syncope can result from any one of several causes. The majority of cases are due to neurocardiogenic syncope, without the potential for sudden death, and due to a sudden reduction in venous return. Cardiac syncope may be due to mechanical or structural factors. A thorough history and physical examination, along with an electrocardiogram, can usually distinguish benign cases from those due to more life-threatening conditions. Those at risk for sudden death need to be identified, so they can be appropriately restricted from further athletic activity.