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Atrial Fibrillation in Athletes.
Christos A Goudis1, Ioannis V Ntalas, Dimitrios G Ketikoglou
1From the *Department of Cardiology, General Hospital of Grevena, Grevena, Greece; †Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece; and ‡Department of Cardiology, Interbalkan Medical Center, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Cardiology in Review
|December 6, 2014
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in athletes, potentially linked to endurance sports. This review examines AF
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent cardiac arrhythmia observed in athletes.
- Endurance sport participation is frequently associated with a higher prevalence of AF.
- Several factors like inflammation, autonomic changes, and myocardial adaptations may contribute to AF in athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology of atrial fibrillation in athletes.
- To explore potential pathophysiological mechanisms underlying AF in this population.
- To discuss current management strategies for AF in athletes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological studies.
- Analysis of proposed pathophysiological mechanisms.
- Synthesis of current treatment guidelines and clinical considerations.
Main Results:
- Athletes, particularly endurance athletes, exhibit a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation.
- Multiple factors including atrial ectopy, inflammation, autonomic imbalance, and cardiac remodeling are implicated.
- Evidence linking specific factors to AF in athletes remains incomplete.
- AF management in athletes presents unique challenges impacting performance and quality of life.
Conclusions:
- Atrial fibrillation is a significant concern in athletes, with complex contributing factors.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and optimize treatment.
- Effective management strategies are crucial for athlete well-being and continued participation.
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