There Are Many Elite Athletes Struggling with Heart Rhythm Disorders

The phenomenon of atrial fibrillation, or arrhythmia, is the most common heart disease in the world, affecting over 50 million people globally. This condition is becoming increasingly common with the aging population and the rising risk of cardiovascular diseases, and in the future, this number could triple.

This disorder refers to the irregular quivering or rapid contractions of the heart’s upper chambers – the atria. As a result, the heart’s pumping ability decreases, which can cause various symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, or even fainting. If atrial fibrillation is left untreated, it can lead to severe consequences such as heart failure or stroke, as this condition can increase the risk of stroke fivefold and, unfortunately, can also occur at a young age.

Risk factors such as poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high body mass index, and salt intake significantly affect heart function. In athletes, these problems are particularly common due to increased physical strain. It is important to emphasize that it is not the act of exercising itself, but the increased load that can cause heart health issues, which is why regular medical check-ups and diagnosis of arrhythmias are essential for athletes.

The Relationship Between Atrial Fibrillation and Sudden Cardiac Death

Atrial fibrillation can have serious consequences, including sudden cardiac death, which can occur even among young, healthy athletes. Recently, several famous athletes, including Hungarian football players, have tragically died due to this condition. The occurrence of sudden cardiac death is difficult to predict and poses a threat not only to athletes but to anyone suffering from some form of heart disease, even without knowing it.

Cases of sudden cardiac death are often the result of genetic disorders or myocarditis, which can occur at a young age. In our country, thousands of sudden cardiac deaths are registered each year, and in many cases, lives could have been saved with immediate medical intervention. If someone experiences persistent chest pain radiating to the left arm, shoulder, or jaw, accompanied by shortness of breath and weakness, they should seek medical help immediately.

The Importance of Medical Check-ups and Prevention for Athletes

Regular medical check-ups play a crucial role in maintaining athletes’ health. For elite athletes, assessing risks is particularly important, as the level and intensity of their physical activity place increased strain on the heart. Genetic testing and screening programs that uncover heart development disorders can help reduce athletes’ risks.

Recent research shows that radiofrequency ablation is increasingly being used to treat symptoms associated with atrial fibrillation. This method provides a safe and effective solution for treating the condition, and the procedure can be performed in a short time. The introduction of cryoablation technology, which is also used in our country, has significantly reduced surgical time and improved patient comfort.

In treating atrial fibrillation, the goal is to reduce symptoms and restore the heart’s normal rhythm. For successful treatment, it is essential to establish the correct diagnosis and manage risk factors. To ensure athletes can safely continue their activities and avoid severe heart problems, prevention and regular medical check-ups are key.