Sport: physiological modifications and evaluation for the prevention of sudden death (Part II). Athlete`s heart

Abstract

The practice of regular sports has proven to be beneficial for health, and prolong life, both in healthy people and in those with cardiovascular disease, at any age. It is also true that it increases the risk of dying suddenly. Evidence has recently emerged that excess could be harmful and is being investigated. In athletes there are adaptations of the cardiovascular apparatus, which can be confused with abnormalities; on the other hand, there are cardiovascular pathologies that progress faster with exercise, and in people with asymptomatic disorders, exercise can trigger adverse events. Pre-sport assessment has been shown to prevent sudden death. In order not to make erroneous diagnoses that affect the lives of athletes, it is necessary to know the clinical, electrocardiographic and anatomical adaptations that are considered normal and to use precise international guidelines. In this second installment, the aspects related to the athlete’s heart will be evaluated, delving into the differential diagnosis between physiological adaptation and pathology.