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[Atrial fibrillation and flutter in athletes]
Giuseppe Inama1, Claudio Pedrinazzi, Ornella Durin
1U.O. di Cardiologia, Dipartimento Cardiocerebrovascolare, A.O. Ospedale Maggiore, Crema (CR). g.inama@hcrema.it
Giornale Italiano Di Cardiologia (2006)
|March 23, 2011
Summary
Intense exercise can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) due to autonomic nervous system changes. Athletes with AF must have well-controlled arrhythmias to safely participate in sports.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia, with prevalence increasing with age.
- Younger athletes (<55 years) represent a significant portion of the sporting population.
- Intense physical training and competitive stress can alter autonomic nervous system activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the link between intense physical training and the development of atrial fibrillation.
- To discuss the implications of atrial fibrillation for athletes.
- To outline considerations for athletes with AF participating in sports.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on autonomic nervous system adaptations to exercise.
- Analysis of physiological responses during intense physical activity and competition.
- Discussion of epidemiological data on atrial fibrillation prevalence in different age groups.
Main Results:
- Intense training increases vagal tone, causing bradycardia.
- Competitive sports trigger catecholamine release due to physical and emotional stress.
- These autonomic changes are potential triggers for atrial fibrillation development.
Conclusions:
- Autonomic nervous system adaptations in athletes may predispose them to atrial fibrillation.
- Severe heart conditions are generally incompatible with competitive sports.
- Athletes with AF can participate if the arrhythmia is well-controlled and tolerated.
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