Athlete's heart

Athlete's heart refers to the physiological changes that occur in the heart due to prolonged and intense physical training. It is a condition commonly seen in athletes who engage in high endurance or strength training sports.

Definition

Athlete's heart is a term used to describe the adaptive responses of the heart to intense physical training. These adaptations include increased heart size, thicker heart walls, and slower resting heart rate. These changes are generally benign and reversible with cessation of training.

Causes

The primary cause of athlete's heart is prolonged and intense physical training. The heart, like any other muscle in the body, adapts to the increased workload by becoming larger and stronger. This is a normal physiological response to exercise and is not considered a disease.

Symptoms

In most cases, athlete's heart does not cause any symptoms. However, some athletes may experience a slower resting heart rate, which is a result of the heart's increased efficiency. In rare cases, athletes may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath or fainting, which could indicate a more serious underlying heart condition.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of athlete's heart is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram. These tests can help to distinguish athlete's heart from other heart conditions that may cause similar changes in the heart.

Treatment

In most cases, no treatment is necessary for athlete's heart. The changes in the heart are generally benign and will reverse with cessation of training. However, if an athlete is experiencing symptoms or if there is concern about a more serious underlying heart condition, further evaluation and treatment may be necessary.

See also

• Cardiovascular system
• Exercise physiology
• Sports medicine

References

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