Cardiac Arrest in Sports: What You Need to Know

Seeing an athlete collapse on the field is shocking, but knowing what to do can save a life. Cardiac arrest isn’t just a medical buzzword – it’s a real risk that can hit anyone, from a high‑school player to a pro. In this guide we’ll break down why it happens, how to spot it, and the steps you should take the moment it occurs.

Why Cardiac Arrest Happens on the Field

Most people think a heart attack is the same as cardiac arrest, but they’re different. Cardiac arrest is when the heart’s electrical system stops beating effectively, so blood stops flowing. In sports, a few things raise the odds:

• Undiagnosed heart conditions: Some athletes have hidden problems like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy that only show up under extreme stress.
• Intense exertion: Pushing the body to its limit can trigger abnormal rhythms, especially in hot or humid weather.
• Dehydration and electrolyte loss: When sodium or potassium levels dip, the heart’s rhythm can go haywire.
• Trauma: A hard hit to the chest can disrupt electrical activity, though this is less common.

Knowing these triggers helps coaches, trainers, and players keep an eye out for warning signs like unexplained fainting, shortness of breath, or lingering chest pain.

How to React When It Occurs

Time is everything. Every second you wait reduces the chance of survival. Follow these steps:

1. Call for help immediately. Shout for the medical team, and have someone call emergency services.
2. Check responsiveness. Tap the athlete’s shoulder and shout. If there’s no response, it’s likely a cardiac arrest.
3. Start CPR right away. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest – about 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Keep it going until a defibrillator arrives.
4. Use an AED if available. Turn it on, follow the voice prompts, and let the device analyze the rhythm. If it says “shock,” deliver the shock and resume CPR.
5. Don’t stop until professionals take over. Even if the athlete seems to recover, keep monitoring breathing and pulse.

Practicing these steps during regular training drills makes the response feel natural when a real emergency hits.

Beyond the immediate reaction, schools and clubs should have a solid emergency action plan: clear roles, available AEDs, and regular screening for heart issues. Simple measures like a quick pre‑season ECG can catch many hidden conditions before they become dangerous.

Remember, cardiac arrest is rare, but it’s not impossible. By staying informed, keeping screening tools handy, and rehearsing emergency steps, you give athletes the best chance to stay in the game – and stay alive.