Watching your child enjoy and excel at their sport is one of the best parts of being a parent. From late-night practices to early morning games, you’re there through it all, providing the support and love they need to thrive.
We know you want what’s best for your children’s health, and so do we. That’s why we offer electrocardiograms (ECGs) for your student-athletes. While it’s rare, sudden cardiac death can occur in young athletes, but regular ECG screenings can help detect abnormalities early on. At AdventHealth, we provide the expert screenings and the compassionate care your child needs to grow strong.
Keep reading to find answers to some frequently asked questions and learn the importance of ECG heart screenings for student-athletes.
What is an ECG?
An electrocardiogram (ECG) involves a machine that monitors the electrical signals that control how the heart beats and pumps blood. They’re noninvasive and useful for detecting heart conditions and rhythm abnormalities. They can be done in a doctor’s office, clinic or hospital. To ensure your child gets an ECG, we offer them during their annual physical for ease and peace of mind.
ECGs for Student-Athletes
It’s common to assume that children and young adults have healthy hearts because they’re young. If they're also an athlete, you likely think of them as the picture of health. But did you know that it’s 2.5 times more likely for sudden cardiac arrest to occur in young athletes than in nonathletes? Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in young athletes, occurs in 1 in every 500 people.
That’s why it’s wise for young athletes to have a physical with a general exam and thorough health and family history, as well as an ECG, to identify at-risk athletes. Being active and playing sports is encouraged, especially when preventing heart disease and childhood obesity. At the same time, making sure kids are playing safely is important, especially those involved in more intense sports.
Keeping It by the Books
Senate Bill 1070, or Florida’s “Second Chance Act,” requires all student-athletes from grades 9 through 12 to get a pre-participation ECG screening before they can play for their school teams. You can easily schedule your child’s ECG through their primary care provider or reach out to your children’s school for more resources.
Health and Family History
Consider the following questions about your family’s health history and share the answers at your child’s physical. If any are a “yes,” they’ll need further evaluation:
- Has anyone in your family ever died of sudden cardiac failure?
- Has your child ever experienced chest pain during exertion?
- Has your child ever fainted during exertion?
These are important questions to be mindful of before the next season of your child’s sport rolls around.
Know the Warning Signs
While sudden cardiac arrest in athletes is rare, it’s always best to be on the safe side. Along with having your child get a sports physical, including an ECG, be aware of the following warning signs before they heavily exert themselves:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Heart palpitations
- Unusual shortness of breath
- Unusual fatigue
- Weakness
If your child experiences any of these symptoms while playing their sport, take them to your nearest ER.
Time for a Heart to Heart
We’re here for all your children’s health care needs. If you notice any of the signs above or have something in your family history that needs to be discussed, schedule an appointment with your child’s primary care doctor as soon as possible. Visit us here to learn more about our primary care services or to find a doctor if you don’t have one.
