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Syncope in Sports, Sports Medicine

Elizabeth A. Williams, DO Reviewed 04/2019
 


BASICS

ALERT

Need to differentiate cardiac syncope (CS) from noncardiac syncope (NCS) due to increased risk of sudden cardiac death with CS

 

DESCRIPTION

  • Syncope: sudden loss of postural tone with loss of...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

Detailed history is critical to determining etiology: 
  • Obtain details from witness if available about events surrounding the syncopal episode such as muscle activity, tongue biting, lo...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • For safety, all athletes with syncope or near syncope should be restricted from sports until further evaluation is completed 6[B].

  • If immediate reversible etiologies are ident...

ONGOING CARE

DIET

  • Encourage proper fueling prior to exertion to ensure adequate fuel for activity. Nutrition plans will vary with the athlete but allow for adequate time for athlete to adjust to the fu...

REFERENCES

1
Vettor G, Zorzi A, Basso C, et al. Syncope as a warning symptom of sudden cardiac death in athletes. Cardiol Clin.  2015;33(3):423–432.
2
Colivicchi F, Ammirati F, Santini M. Epidemiolo...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Ackerman MJ, Zipes DP, Kovacs RJ, et al. Eligibility and disqualification recommendations for competitive athletes with cardiovascular abnormalities: Task Force 10: The cardiac chan...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Differentiating CS from NCS is key in determining next steps in evaluation and return-to-play decision making.

  • If concern for CS, consult with sports cardiology if available.

  • Return-to-p...

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