Student Athlete Screening
According to a 2008 study in the Heart Rhythm Journal less than 1 in 10 U.S. student-athletes who suffer sudden cardiac arrest survive. Sudden cardiac arrest is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. It usually causes death if it’s not treated within minutes.
As a baby develops during pregnancy, there are normally several openings in the wall dividing the upper chambers of the heart (atria). These usually close during pregnancy or shortly after birth. If one of these openings does not close, a hole is left, and it is called an atrial septal defect. The hole increases the amount of blood that flows through the lungs and over time, it may cause damage to the blood vessels in the lungs. Damage to the blood vessels in the lungs may cause problems in adulthood, such as high blood pressure in the lungs and heart failure. Other problems may include abnormal heartbeat, and increased risk of stroke. With ultrasound we are able to identify these septal defects.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently estimated that each year about 1,966 babies in the United States are born with an atrial septal defect. The goal is to get to these kids early, especially before they begin high-intensity sports. Our Student Heart Screening is not exclusive to athletes. We recommend all students to get checked.
They are young, strong, competitive athletes, in top physical condition. Yet about 90% of them die every year, often in the heat of competition, victims of sudden cardiac death. Now a new study suggests that there is a cost-effective way to lower the death rate significantly: screening athletes with an electrocardiogram (EKG). However, with an echocardiogram/sonogram (2-D echocardiogram) we avoid the chances of false readings. Plus we can offer our Student Heart Ultrasound Screening at or below the cost of most electrocardiograms (EKG).
With this screening we are able to rule out 10 potential heart diseases which can potentially save your child’s life. Bring in your school aged child and mention this ad to receive the Student Heart Screening Package (2-D echo) at only $80.00. We are located at 4959 Palo Verde St. #103C Montclair CA. Schedule online at www.trinityultrasound.com or call us at 909-628-4010.
by Enrique