Cardiac Dysautonomia after Concussion in Athletes
Kerry Singh1, Stephanie Saucier2, Antonio B Fernandez3
1Preventive Cardiology, Divison of Cardiology, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT, USA.
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|March 5, 2026
Summary
Concussions can cause cardiac autonomic dysfunction, especially after injury. This review covers evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for athletes from a sports cardiology viewpoint.
Area of Science:
- Sports cardiology
- Neurology
- Autonomic nervous system function
Background:
- Cardiac autonomic dysfunction is a common consequence of concussions.
- Athletes are particularly vulnerable to these injuries.
- Understanding this link is crucial for athlete recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on concussion-related cardiac autonomic dysfunction.
- To provide guidance on evaluation and diagnosis.
- To discuss treatment considerations for athletes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research.
- Synthesis of clinical experience.
- Focus on sports cardiology perspective.
Main Results:
- Cardiac autonomic dysfunction frequently occurs post-concussion.
- Specific diagnostic modalities are available.
- Differential diagnoses must be considered.
Conclusions:
- Early recognition and management of cardiac autonomic dysfunction are vital for athletes.
- A multidisciplinary approach is often necessary.
- Further research can refine treatment strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System
1.8K
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is an intricate network of nerves that controls functions such as the regulation of heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure regulation. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to various disorders that affect multiple bodily functions. One common feature of many autonomic disorders is the involvement of smooth blood vessels, which play a crucial role in regulating blood flow throughout the body.
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's...
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's...
1.8K
01:30Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
687
Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
687
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
4.8K
Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
4.8K
01:25Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
1.1K
Pharmacologic intervention is crucial in treating cardiac arrest patients during ACLS or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. The ACLS algorithms guide the administration of specific drugs based on the patient's cardiac arrest rhythm, which includes pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF), asystole, and pulseless electrical activity (PEA).EpinephrineIndication: Epinephrine is the first-line drug for all cardiac arrest rhythms.Mechanism of Action: Epinephrine...
1.1K
01:26Imbalances in Cardiac Output
3.3K
The heart's primary function is to pump blood throughout the body, maintaining a balance between blood sent out (cardiac output) and blood returning (venous return). If this balance is disrupted, it can result in congestive heart failure (CHF), a severe condition where the heart becomes an inefficient pump, leading to inadequate blood circulation.
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send...
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send...
3.3K
01:17Exercise and Cardiac Output
2.3K
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, with aerobic exercises being particularly effective. According to the American Heart Association, 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic exercise per week is recommended for a healthy heart. Aerobic activities may include brisk walking, running, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and swimming, ideally performed three to five times per week.
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
2.3K