The Athletic Heart

Exercise not only helps us feel better but look better, but in fact it helps shape up our cardiovascular system as well.  The heart becomes very efficient in its function and the arteries become healthier.  In fact regular exercise helps in improving hypertension and even delay diabetes.  This is why we need to be engaged in routine exercise.  My definition of an athlete is anyone that does routine exercise whether it is at the professional level or basic level.  In general exercise can induce and bring to light hidden cardiovascular disease states.  If the athlete is older, then he may have a hidden underlying coronary artery disease that can suddenly manifest itself in sudden cardiac arrest. If the athlete is younger than 35 years of age, then there may be a hidden underlying structural heart disease such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy that can lead to sudden cardiac death.  

My advice to all who are athletes is to be a smart athlete. Know your body.  If you have any symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath that is beyond normal, sudden passing out spells, feeling of palpitations with or without exercise, dizziness, a family history of heart disease or sudden death, then make sure that you ask for assistance from a physicians who is well versed in the field of Cardiovascular medicine.

For more information regarding the issues involved with athletic heart and sudden cardiac death, you may want to read the In the News section of this website.!