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Sudden death in young people: Heart problems often blamed
Are there symptoms or red flags parents, coaches and others should be on the lookout for that signal a young person is at high risk of sudden cardiac death?
Should young people with a heart defect avoid physical activity?
Content
How common is sudden cardiac death in young people?
What can cause sudden cardiac death in young people?
How can parents, coaches and others know if a young person is at risk of sudden cardiac death?
Can sudden death in young people be prevented?
Who should be screened for sudden death risk factors?
Should young adults with a heart problem avoid or limit physical activity?
Should young people with a heart defect avoid physical activity?
Content
How common is sudden cardiac death in young people?
What can cause sudden cardiac death in young people?
How can parents, coaches and others know if a young person is at risk of sudden cardiac death?
Can sudden death in young people be prevented?
Who should be screened for sudden death risk factors?
Should young adults with a heart problem avoid or limit physical activity?
How can parents, coaches and others know if a young person is at risk of sudden cardiac death?
Many times, sudden cardiac death occurs without warning. Or warning signs may not be noticed. Ask if a health checkup is needed for anyone who has:
- Fainting, also called syncope. Fainting that cannot be explained and occurs during activity or exercise could mean there is a heart problem.
- Shortness of breath or chest pain. These symptoms could be a sign of a heart problem. But conditions such as asthma also can be the cause. That is why it is important to get a complete health checkup.
- Family history of sudden cardiac death. This family history makes a person more likely to have the same type of heart event. If there is a family history of deaths that cannot be explained, talk with a healthcare professional about screening options.
