Atrial Fibrillation: Should Lifelong Athletes Be Worried?. Issue 2 (April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Drum, Scott N.; Donath, Lars; Dehlin, Chris; Kashou, Anthony; Noseworthy, Peter A.; Zacher, Jonas
• Is Part Of: Strength and conditioning journal. Volume 42:Issue 2(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-04
• Subjects: lone atrial fibrillation -- lifelong exerciser -- arrhythmia -- stroke risk -- detraining -- dose response; Physical education and training -- Periodicals; Bodybuilding -- Periodicals; Muscle strength -- Periodicals; 613.7
• DOI: 10.1519/SSC.0000000000000515
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1524-1602

Abstract

Abstract : ABSTRACT: Atrial fibrillation (AF) in lifetime athletes (e.g., ≥5 years of participation) is a growing concern but remains enigmatic. Intriguingly, a direct relationship between lifetime training hours and risk of developing AF exists. Professionals in exercise and sport science are at the forefront to help recognize symptoms and direct the athlete to appropriate medical clinicians for expedient care. Although AF in athletes is usually not accompanied by structural heart disease or stroke risk factors (i.e., termed lone AF), it may, nonetheless, pose health risks. In this study, we review various types of AF, proposed mechanisms, and treatment strategies for athletes with AF.