Prevention of Sudden Death in Sports PDF

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2012

Douglas J. Casa, Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Scott A. Anderson, Ronald W. Courson, Jonathan F. Heck, Carolyn C. Jimenez, Brendon P. McDermott, Michael G. Miller, Rebecca L. Stearns, Erik E. Swartz, Katie M.

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sudden death sports injuries athletic training emergency care

Summary

This position statement from the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) provides recommendations for preventing sudden death in sports. It covers various conditions including asthma, head and neck injuries, and exertional heat stroke. The document emphasizes the importance of emergency action plans (EAPs) and training for proper response.

Full Transcript

Journal of Athletic Training 2012:47(1):96-118 © by the National Athletic Trainers' Association, Inc position statement. www.nata.org/jat National Athletic Trainers' Association Position Statement: Preve...

Journal of Athletic Training 2012:47(1):96-118 © by the National Athletic Trainers' Association, Inc position statement. www.nata.org/jat National Athletic Trainers' Association Position Statement: Preventing Sudden Death in Sports Douglas J. Casa, PhD, ATC, FNATA, FACSM* (co-chair); Kevin M. Guskiewicz, PhD, ATC, FNATA, FACSMt (co-chair); Scott A. Anderson, ATC:t:;Ronald W. Courson, ATC, PT, NREMT-I, CSCS§; Jonathan F. Heck, MS, ATCII; Carolyn C. Jimenez, PhD, ATC~; Brendon P. McDermott, PhD, ATC#; Michael G. Miller, PhD, EdD, ATC, CSCS**; Rebecca L. Stearns, MA, ATC*; Erik E. Swartz, PhD, ATC, FNATAtt; Katie M. Walsh, EdD, ATC:t::t: Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 *Korey Stringer Institute, University of Connecticut, Storrs; tMatthew Gfeller Sport-Related Traumatic Brain Injury Research Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; tUniversity of Oklahoma, Norman; §University of Georgia, Athens; IIRichard Stockton College, Pomona, NJ; ~West Chester University, PA; #University of Tennessee at Chattanooga; **Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo; ttUniversity of New Hampshire, Durham; ttEast Carolina University, Greenville, NC Objective: To present recommendations for the prevention Recommendations: These guidelines are intended to pro- and screening, recognition, and treatment of the most common vide relevant information on preventing sudden death in sports conditions resulting in sudden death in organized sports. and to give specific recommendations for certified athletic Background: Cardiac conditions, head injuries, neck in- trainers and others participating in athletic health care. juries, exertional heat stroke, exertional sickling, asthma, and Key Words: asthma, cardiac conditions, diabetes, exertional other factors (eg, lightning, diabetes) are the most common heat stroke, exertional hyponatremia, exertional sickling, head causes of death in athletes. injuries, neck injuries, lightning safety S udden death in sports and physical activity has a vari- properly guide the athlete, determine when emergency treatment ety of causes. The 10 conditions covered in this position is needed, and distinguish among similar signs and symptoms statement are that may reflect a variety of potentially fatal circumstances. Asthma For the patient to have the best possible outcome, correct and Catastrophic brain injuries prompt emergency care is critical; delaying care until the am- Cervical spine injuries bulance arrives may result in permanent disability or death. Diabetes Therefore, we urgently advocate training coaches in first aid, Exertional heat stroke cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external Exertional hyponatremia defibrillator (AED) use, so that they can provide treatment until Exertional sickling a medical professional arrives; however, such training is inad- Head-down contact in football equate for the successful and complete care of the conditions Lightning described in this position statement. Saving the life of a young Sudden cardiac arrest athlete should not be a coach's responsibility or liability. (Order does not indicate rate of occurrence.) For this reason, we also urge every high school to have an Recognizing the many reasons for sudden death allows us to AT available to promptly take charge of a medical emergency. create and implement emergency action plans (EAPs) that pro- As licensed medical professionals, ATs receive thorough train- vide detailed guidelines for prevention, recognition, treatment, ing in preventing, recognizing, and treating critical situations in and return to play (RTP). Unlike collegiate and professional the physically active. Each AT works closely with a physician teams, which usually have athletic trainers (ATs) available, to create and apply appropriate EAPs and RTP guidelines. nearly half of high schools as well as numerous other athletic Throughout this position statement, each recommenda- settings lack the appropriate medical personnel to put these tion is labeled with a specific level of evidence based on the guidelines into practice and instead rely on the athletic director, Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT).! This tax- team coach, or strength and conditioning specialist to do so. onomy takes into account the quality, quantity, and consistency To provide appropriate care for athletes, one must be famil- of the evidence in support of each recommendation: Category iar with a large number of illnesses and conditions in order to A represents consistent good-quality evidence, B represents 96 Volume 47 Number 1 February 2012 JAT 47-1 12_casa.096-118.indd 96 inconsistent or limited-quality or limited-quantity evidence, with monitoring the condition and taking medication as and C represents recommendations based on consensus, usual prescribed. Evidence Category: C practice, opinion, or case series. The following rules apply to every EAP: Recognition 1. Every organization that sponsors athletic activities should have a written, structured EAP. Evidence Category: B 4. The sports medicine staff should be aware of the major 2. The EAP should be developed and coordinated with lo- asthma signs and symptoms (ie, confusion, sweating, cal EMS staff, school public safety officials, onsite first drowsiness, forced expiratory volume in the first second responders, school medical staff, and school administra- [FEVt] of less than 40%, low level of oxygen satura- tors. Evidence Category: B tion, use of accessory muscles for breathing, wheezing, 3. The EAP should be specific to each athletic venue. Evi- cyanosis, coughing, hypotension, bradycardia or tachy- dence Category: B cardia, mental status changes, loss of consciousness, 4. The EAP should be practiced at least annually with all inability to lie supine, inability to speak coherently, or those who may be involved. Evidence Category: B agitation) and other conditions (eg, vocal cord dysfunc- Those responsible for arranging organized sport activities tion, allergies, smoking) that can cause exacerbations.4,5 must generate an EAP to directly focus on these items: Evidence Category: A 1. Instruction, preparation, and expectations of the athletes, 5. Spirometry tests at rest and with exercise and a field test parents or guardians, sport coaches, strength and condi- (in the sport-specific environment) should be conducted tioning coaches, and athletic directors. on athletes suspected of having asthma to help diagnose 2. Health care professionals who will provide medical care the condition.2,6 Evidence Category: B during practices and games and supervise the execution 6. An increase of 12% or more in the FEVt after admin- Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 of the EAP with respect to medical care. istration of an inhaled bronchodilator also indicates re- 3. Precise prevention, recognition, treatment, and RTP poli- versible airway disease and may be used as a diagnostic cies for the common causes of sudden death in athletes. criterion for asthma.? The EAP should be coordinated and supervised by the on- site AT. A sports organization that does not have a medical su- Treatment pervisor, such as an AT, present at practices and games and as part of the medical infrastructure runs the risk of legal liability. 7. For an acute asthmatic exacerbation, the athlete should Athletes participating in an organized sport have a reasonable use a short-acting ~2-agonist to relieve symptoms. In a expectation of receiving appropriate emergency care, and the severe exacerbation, rapid sequential administrations standards for EAP development have also become more con- of a ~2-agonist may be needed. If 3 administrations of sistent and rigorous at the youth level. Therefore, the absence medication do not relieve distress, the athlete should be of such safeguards may render the organization sponsoring the referred promptly to an appropriate health care facility.s sporting event legally liable. Evidence Category: A The purpose of this position statement is to provide an over- 8. Inhaled corticosteroids or leukotriene inhibitors can be view of the critical information for each condition (preven- used for asthma prophylaxis and control. A long-acting tion, recognition, treatment, and RTP) and indicate how this ~2-agonist can be combined with other medications to information should dictate the basic policies and procedures help control asthma.9 Evidence Category: B regarding the most common causes of sudden death in sports. 9. Supplemental oxygen should be offered to improve the Our ultimate goal is to guide the development of policies and athlete's available oxygenation during asthma attacks.tO procedures that can minimize the occurrence of catastrophic Evidence Category: B incidents in athletes. All current position statements of the Na- 10. Lung function should be monitored with a peak flow tional Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) are listed in the meter. Values should be compared with baseline lung Appendix. volume values and should be at least 80% of predicted values before the athlete may participate in activities.ll Evidence Category: B ASTHMA 11. If feasible, the athlete should be removed from an en- vironment with factors (eg, smoke, allergens) that may Recommendations have caused the asthma attack. Evidence Category: C 12. In the athlete with asthma, physical activity should be Prevention and Screening initiated at low aerobic levels and exercise intensity gradually increased while monitoring occurs for recur- 1. Athletes who may have or are suspected of having rent asthma symptoms. Evidence Category: C asthma should undergo a thorough medical history and physical examination.2 Evidence Category: B Background and Literature Review 2. Athletes with asthma should participate in a structured warmup protocol before exercise or sport activity to de- Definition, Epidemiology, and Pathophysiology. In 2009, crease reliance on medications and minimize asthmatic asthma was thought to affect approximately 22 million people symptoms and exacerbations.3 Evidence Category: B in the United States, including approximately 6 million chil- 3. The sports medicine staff should educate athletes with dren.4 Asthma is a disease in which the airways become in- asthma about the use of asthma medications as prophy- flamed and airflow is restricted.4 Airway inflammation, which laxis before exercise, spirometry devices, asthma trig- may lead to airway hyperresponsiveness and narrowing, is as- gers, recognition of signs and symptoms, and compliance sociated with mast cell production and activation and increased Journal of Athletic Training 97 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 97 Signs of respiratory distress 3. Measure PEF Shortness of breath Difficulty completing sentencees Cough PEF decreased 15% or Wheezing less Chest tightness , Monitor for Use of accessory improvement muscles of breathing 5 minutes Give inhaled SABA Signs of pending medication respiratory failure? Recheck PEF Accessory muscles for breathing Cyanosis Confusion Sweating PEF at baseline Poor air movement Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 Give inhaled SABA medication Call 911 Prepare for CPR If known asthma, give inhaled SABA medication Continue to monitor until symptoms resolve Place in comfortable position Check vital signs: respiratory rate> 30, heart rate> 120, oxygen saturation decreasing Hospitalization if not improving Figure 1. Asthma pharmacologic management. Abbreviations: CPR, cardiopulmonary resuscitation; PEF, peak expiratory flow; SABA, short-acting ~2-agonist. Casa OJ, Preventing Sudden Death in Sport and Physical Activity, 2012: Jones & Bartlett Learning, Sudbury, MA. www.jblearning.com. Reprinted with permission. number of eosinophils and other inflammatory cells.2,3 Cellular to use medication as prescribed (including potential adverse and mediator events cause inflammation, bronchial constriction effects and barriers to taking medications, which can include via smooth muscle contraction, and acute swelling from fluid failure to recognize the importance of controlling asthma, shifts. Chronic airway inflammation may cause remodeling and failure to recognize the potential severity of the condition, thickening of the bronchiolar wallS.!2,!3 medication costs, difficulty obtaining medications, inability to Clinical signs of asthma include confusion, sweating, integrate treatment of the disease with daily life, and distrust drowsiness, use of accessory muscles for breathing, wheezing, of the medical establishment), and using spirometry equipment coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthma may correctly.2,4,5 be present during specific times of the year, vary with the type Recognition. Athletes with asthma may display the fol- of environment, occur during or after exercise, and be triggered lowing signs and symptoms: confusion, sweating, drowsiness, by respiratory infections, allergens, pollutants, aspirin, non- FEV! of less than 40%, low level of oxygen saturation, use of steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, inhaled irritants, exposure to accessory muscles for breathing, wheezing, cyanosis, cough- cold, and exercise.5 ing, hypotension, bradycardia or tachycardia, mental status Prevention. Athletes suspected of having asthma should changes, loss of consciousness, inability to lie supine, inabil- undergo a thorough health history examination and prepartici- ity to speak coherently, or agitation.2,4,5 Peak expiratory flow pation physical examination. Unfortunately, the sensitivity and rates of less than 80% of the personal best or daily variability specificity of the medical history are not known, and this evalu- greater than 20% of the morning value indicate lack of control ation may not be the best method for identifying asthma.!4 of asthma. The sports medicine staff should consider testing all Performing warmup activities before sport participation can athletes with asthma using a sport-specific and environment- help prevent asthma attacks. With a structured warmup proto- specific exercise challenge protocol to assist in determining col, the athlete may experience a refractory period of as long triggers of airway hyperresponsiveness.6 as 2 hours, potentially decreasing the risk of an exacerbation Treatment. Treatment for those with asthma includes rec- or decreasing reliance on medications.6 In addition, the sports ognition of exacerbating factors and the proper use of asthma medicine team should provide education to assist the athlete in medications (Figure 1). A short-acting ~2-agonist should be recognizing asthma signs and symptoms, understanding how readily available; onset of action is typically 5 to 15 minutes, 98 Volume 47 Number 1 February 2012 JAT 47-1 12_casa.096-118.indd 98 so the medication can be readministered 1 to 3 times per hour if 7. Returning an athlete to participation after a head injury needed.1OIf breathing difficulties continue after 3 treatments in should follow a graduated progression that begins once the 1 hour or the athlete continues to have any signs or symptoms athlete is completely asymptomatic. Evidence Category: C of acute respiratory distress, referral to an acute or urgent care 8. The athlete should be monitored periodically throughout facility should ensue. For breathing distress, the sports medi- and after these sessions to determine whether any symptoms cine team should provide supplemental oxygen to help main- develop or increase in intensity. Evidence Category: C tain blood oxygen saturation above 92%.10 Proper use of inhaled corticosteroids can decrease the fre- Background and Literature Review quency and severity of asthma exacerbations while improving lung function and reducing hyperresponsiveness and the need Definition, Epidemiology, and Pathophysiology. Cerebral for short-acting ~2-agonists.15,16Leukotriene modifiers can be concussion is classified as mild traumatic brain injury and often used to control allergen-, aspirin-, or exercise-induced bron- affects athletes in both helmeted and nonhelmeted sportS.18,19 choconstriction and decrease asthma exacerbations.17 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that Return to Play. No specific guidelines describe RTP after 1.6 to 3.8 million sport-related concussive injuries occur annu- an asthma attack in an athlete. However, in general, the athlete ally in the United States.20 Although they are rare, severe cata- should first be asymptomatic and progress through graded in- strophic traumatic brain injuries, such as subdural and epidural creases in exercise activity. Lung function should be monitored hematomas and malignant cerebral edema (ie, second-impact with a peak flow meter and compared with baseline measures syndrome), result in more fatalities from direct trauma than any to determine when asthma is sufficiently controlled to allow other sport injury. When these injuries do occur, brain swelling the athlete to resume participation.ll Where possible, the sports or pooling of blood (or both) increases intracranial pressure; if medicine staff should identify and treat asthmatic triggers, such this condition is not treated quickly, brainstem herniation and Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 as allergic rhinitis, before the athlete returns to participation. respiratory arrest can follow. Catastrophic brain injuries rank second only to cardiac-related injuries and illnesses as the most common cause of fatalities in football players.21 However, the CATASTROPHIC BRAIN INJURIES National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research reported that fatal brain injuries have occurred in almost every sport, Recommendations including baseball, lacrosse, soccer, track, and wrestling.22 For a catastrophic brain injury such as second-impact syndrome, Prevention which has a mortality rate approaching 50% and a morbidity rate nearing 100%, prevention is of the utmost importance. 1. The AT is responsible for coordinating educational ses- Prevention. Preventing catastrophic brain injuries in sports, sions with athletes and coaches to teach the recognition such as skull fractures, intracranial hemorrhages, and diffuse of concussion (ie, specific signs and symptoms), seri- cerebral edema (second-impact syndrome), must involve the ous nature of traumatic brain injuries in sport, and im- following: (1) prevention and education about traumatic brain portance of reporting concussions and not participating injury for athletes, coaches, and parents; (2) enforcing the stan- while symptomatic. Evidence Category: C dard use of sport-specific and certified equipment (eg, National 2. The AT should enforce the standard use of certified hel- Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment mets while also educating athletes, coaches, and parents [NOCSAE] or Hockey Equipment Certification Council, Inc that although such helmets meet a standard for helping [HECC]-certified helmets); (3) use of comprehensive, objec- to prevent catastrophic head injuries, they do not prevent tive baseline and postinjury assessment measures; (4) adminis- cerebral concussions. Evidence Category: B tration of home care and referral instructions emphasizing the monitoring and management of deteriorating signs and symp- Recognition toms; (5) use of systematic and monitored graduated RTP pro- 3. The AT should incorporate the use of a comprehensive gressions; (6) clearly documented records of the evaluation and objective concussion assessment battery that includes management of the injury to help guide a sound RTP decision; symptom, cognitive, and balance measures. Each of these and (7) proper preparedness for on-field medical management represents only one piece of the concussion puzzle and of a serious head injury. should not be used in isolation to manage concussion. Prevention begins with education. The AT is responsible for Evidence Category: A coordinating educational sessions with athletes and coaches to teach the recognition of concussion (ie, specific signs and Treatment and Management symptoms), serious nature of traumatic brain injuries in sport, and importance of reporting their injuries and not participat- 4. A comprehensive medical management plan for acute ing while symptomatic. During this process, athletes who are at care of an athlete with a potential intracranial hemor- risk for subsequent concussion or catastrophic injury should be rhage or diffuse cerebral edema should be implemented. identified and counseled about the risk of subsequent injury. Evidence Category: B As recommended in the NATA position statement on man- 5. If the athlete's symptoms persist or worsen or the level of agement of sport-related concussion,23 the AT should enforce consciousness deteriorates after a concussion, the patient the standard use of helmets for preventing catastrophic head should be immediately referred to a physician trained in injuries and reducing the severity of cerebral concussions in concussion management. Evidence Category: B sports that require helmet protection (eg, football, men's la- 6. Oral and written instructions for home care should be crosse, ice hockey, baseball, softball). The AT should ensure given to the athlete and to a responsible adult. Evidence that all equipment meets NOCSAE, HECC, or American Soci- Category: C ety for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. A poorly fitted Journal of Athletic Training 99 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 99 helmet is limited in the amount of protection it can provide, and has a more serious and quickly deteriorating condition. If the the AT must playa role in enforcing the proper fit and use of athlete presents with a Glasgow coma score of less than 8 or the helmet. Protective sport helmets are designed primarily to other indications of more involved brain or brainstem impair- help prevent catastrophic injuries (eg, skull fractures and intra- ment appear (eg, posturing, altered breathing pattern), the AT or cranial hematomas) and not concussions. A helmet that protects other members of the sports medicine team must be prepared the head from a skull fracture does not adequately prevent the to perform manual ventilations through either endotracheal in- rotational and shearing forces that lead to many concussions,24 tubation or bag-valve-mouth resuscitation. These procedures a fact that many people misunderstand. should be initiated if the athlete is not oxygenating well (ie, Recognition. The use of objective concussion measures becoming dusky or blue, ventilating incompletely and slower during preseason and postinjury assessments helps the AT and than normal at 12 to 15 breaths per minute).32 physician accurately identify deficits associated with the injury Normal end tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure of 35-45 and track recovery. However, neuropsychological testing is mm Hg usually result from a bagging rate of 12 breaths per only one component of the evaluation process and should not minute. Hyperventilation may be indicated if the athlete dem- be used as a standalone tool to diagnose or manage concussion onstrates obvious signs of brain-stem herniation (eg, "blown" or to make RTP decisions after concussion. Including objec- pupil or posturing). In the event of impending cerebral herni- tive measures of cognitive function and balance prevents pre- ation, increasing the rate to about 20 breaths per minute will mature clearance of an athlete who reports being symptom free achieve the objective of reducing the end tidal carbon dioxide but has persistent deficits that are not easily detected through partial pressure below the recommended 35 mm Hg. Addition- the clinical examination. The concussion assessment battery ally, the sports medicine team should aim to reduce intracra- should include a combination of tests for cognition, balance, nial pressure by elevating the head to at least 30° and ensuring and self-reported symptoms known to be affected by concus- that the head and neck are maintained in the midline position Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 sion. Because many athletes (an estimated 49% to 75%)25,26do to optimize venous outflow from the brain. Intravenous (IV) not report their concussions, this objective assessment model diuretics such as mannitol (0.5 to 1.0 g/kg) may also decrease is important. The sensitivity of this comprehensive battery, intracranial pressure but would typically be administered in a including a graded symptom checklist, computerized neuro- controlled medical environment by personnel trained in these psychological test, and balance test, reached 94%,27 which is techniques.32 Obviously, being prepared for immediate trans- consistent with previous reports.28,29 fer to a medical facility is extremely important under these Multiple concussion assessment tools are available, includ- conditions. ing low-technology and high-technology balance tests, brief Return to Play. Returning an athlete to participation should paper-and-pencil cognitive tests, and computerized cogni- follow a graduated RTP progression (Table 1). If the exertional tive tests. As of 2010, the National Football League, National activities do not produce acute symptoms, he or she may prog- Hockey League, and National Collegiate Athletic Association ress to the next step. No more than 2 steps should be performed require an objective assessment as part of a written concussion on the same day, which allows monitoring of both acute (during management protocol. By using objective measures, which the activity) and delayed (within 24 hours after the activity) were endorsed by the Third International Consensus Statement symptoms. The athlete may advance to step 5 and return to full on Concussion in Sport (Zurich, 2008),30,31ATs and physicians participation once he or she has remained asymptomatic for 24 are better equipped to manage concussion than by relying hours after step 4 of the protocol. The athlete should be moni- solely on subjective reports from the athlete. Additionally, the tored periodically throughout and after these sessions with ob- often hidden deficits associated with concussion and gradual jective assessment measures to determine whether an increase deterioration that may indicate more serious brain trauma or in intensity is warranted. If the athlete's symptoms return at postconcussion syndrome (ie, symptoms lasting longer than 4 any point during the RTP progression, at least 24 hours without weeks) may be detected with these tools. symptoms must pass before the protocol is reintroduced, begin- Treatment. Once the athlete has been thoroughly evalu- ning at step 1. ated and identified as having sustained a concussion, a com- Although some state concussion laws have allowed provisions prehensive medical management plan should be implemented. for allied health care professionals to make the RTP decision, it This begins with making a determination about whether the is recommended that a physician with training and experience patient should be immediately referred to a physician or sent in concussion management be involved in a structured team home with specific observation instructions. Although this plan approach. A concussion management policy outlining the roles should include serial evaluations and observations by the AT and responsibilities of each member of the sports medicine team (as outlined earlier), continued monitoring of postconcussion signs and symptoms by those with whom the athlete lives is both important and practical. If symptoms persist or worsen or Table 1. Graduated Return-to-Play Sample Protocol the level of consciousness deteriorates after a concussion, the Exertion Step Activities athlete should be immediately referred to a medical facility. 1. 20-min stationary bike at 10-14 mph (16-23 kph) To assist with this, oral and written instructions for home care 2. Interval bike: 30-s sprint at 18-20 mph (29-32 kph), 30-s recovery x 10 repetitions; body weight circuit: should be given to the athlete and to a responsible adult (eg, par- squats, push-ups, sit-upsx20 sx3 repetitions ents or roommate) who will observe and supervise the athlete 3. 60-yd (55-m) shuttle run x 10 repetitions with 40-s during the acute phase of the concussion while at home or in rest, plyometric workout: 10-yd (9-m) bounding, 10 the dormitory. The AT and physician should agree on a standard medicine ball throws, 10 vertical jumpsx3 repetitions; concussion home instruction form similar to the one presented noncontact, sport-specific drillsx15 min in the NATA position statement23 and Zurich guidelines.3o,31 4. Limited, controlled return to practice with monitoring for symptoms The proper preparedness for on-field and sideline medical 5. Full sport participation in practice management of a head injury becomes paramount if the athlete 100 Volume 47 Number 1 February 2012 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 100 should be adopted. At a minimum, the AT should document all 10. If the spine is not in a neutral position, rescuers should pertinent information surrounding the evaluation and manage- realign the cervical spine.46,47However, the presence or ment of any suspected concussions, including (a) mechanism development of any of the following, alone or in com- of injury; (b) initial signs and symptoms; (c) state of conscious- bination, is a contraindication to realignment45,48: pain ness; (d) findings on serial testing of symptoms, neuropsycho- caused or increased by movement, neurologic symp- logical function, and balance (noting any deficits compared toms, muscle spasm, airway compromise, physical dif- with baseline); (e) instructions given to the athlete, parent, or ficulty repositioning the spine, encountered resistance, roommate; (f) recommendations provided by the physician; (g) or apprehension expressed by the patient. Evidence Cat- graduated RTP progression, including dates and specific activi- egory: B ties involved in the athlete's return to participation; and (h) rel- 11. Manual stabilization of the head should be converted to evant information on the player's history of prior concussion immobilization using external devices such as foam head and associated recovery patterns.23 This level of detail can help blocks.47,49Whenever possible, manual stabilization50 is prevent a premature return to participation and a catastrophic resumed after the application of external devices. Evi- brain injury such as second-impact syndrome. dence Category: B 12. Athletes should be immobilized with a long spine board or other full-body immobilization device.51,52Evidence CERVICAL SPINE INJURIES Category: B Recommendations Equipment-Laden Athletes Prevention Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 13. The primary acute treatment goals in equipment-laden 1. Athletic trainers should be familiar with sport-specific athletes are to ensure that the cervical spine is immo- causes of catastrophic cervical spine injury and under- bilized in neutral and vital life functions are accessible. stand the physiologic responses in spinal cord injury. Removal of helmet and shoulder pads in any equipment- Evidence Category: C intensive sport should be deferred53-56until the athlete 2. Coaches and athletes should be educated about the has been transported to an emergency medical facility mechanisms of catastrophic spine injuries and pertinent except in 3 circumstances57: the helmet is not properly safety rules enacted for the prevention of cervical spine fitted to prevent movement of the head independent of injuries. Evidence Category: C the helmet, the equipment prevents neutral alignment of 3. Corrosion-resistant hardware should be used in helmets, the cervical spine, or the equipment prevents airway or helmets should be regularly maintained throughout a chest access.53,54,58 Evidence Category: C season, and helmets should undergo regular recondition- 14. Full face-mask removal using established tools and tech- ing and recertification.33 Evidence Category: B niques59-61is executed once the decision has been made 4. Emergency department personnel should become fa- to immobilize and transport. Evidence Category: C miliar with proper athletic equipment removal, seeking 15. If possible, a team physician or AT should accompany education from sports medicine professionals regarding the athlete to the hospital. Evidence Category: C appropriate methods to minimize motion. Evidence Cat- 16. Remaining protective equipment should be removed by egory: C appropriately trained professionals in the emergency de- partment. Evidence Category: C Recognition 5. During initial assessment, the presence of any of the fol- Background and Literature Review lowing, alone or in combination, requires the initiation Definition, Epidemiology, and Pathophysiology. A cata- of the spine injury management protocol: unconscious- strophic cervical spinal cord injury occurs with structural dis- ness or altered level of consciousness, bilateral neuro- tortion of the cervical spinal column and is associated with logic findings or complaints, significant midline spine actual or potential damage to the spinal cord.62 The spinal in- pain with or without palpation, or obvious spinal column jury that carries the greatest risk of immediate sudden death deformity.34-39Evidence Category: A for the athlete occurs when the damage is both severe enough and at a high enough level in the spinal column (above C5) to Treatment and Management affect the spinal cord's ability to transmit respiratory or circula- tory control from the brain.63,64The priority in these situations 6. The cervical spine should be in neutral position, and is simply to support the basic life functions of breathing and manual cervical spine stabilization should be applied circulation. Unfortunately, even if an athlete survives the initial immediately.40,41Evidence Category: B acute management phase of the injury, the risk of death persists 7. Traction must not be applied to the cervical spine.42,43 because of the complex biochemical cascade of events that oc- Evidence Category: B curs in the injured spinal cord during the initial 24 to 72 hours 8. Immediate attempts should be made to expose the air- after injury.64 Because of this risk, efficient acute care, trans- way. Evidence Category: C port, diagnosis, and treatment are critical in preventing sudden 9. If rescue breathing becomes necessary, the person with death in a patient with a catastrophic cervical spine injury. the most training and experience should establish an air- Treatment and Management. A high level of evidence (ie, way and begin rescue breathing using the safest tech- prospective randomized trials) on this topic is rare, and tech- nique.44,45Evidence Category: B nology, equipment, and techniques will continue to evolve, but Journal of Athletic Training 101 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 101 the primary goals offered in the NATA position statement on increased thirst, and frequent urination. Evidence Cat- acute management of the cervical spine-injured athlete65 re- egory: C main the same: create as little motion as possible and complete the steps of the EAP as rapidly as is appropriate to facilitate Treatment and Management support of basic life functions and prepare for transport to the nearest emergency treatment facility. 7. Mild hypoglycemia (ie, the athlete is conscious and able Additional complications can affect the care of the spine- to swallow and follow directions) is treated by admin- injured athlete in an equipment-intensive sport when rescuers istering approximately 10-15 g of carbohydrates (ex- may need to remove protective equipment that limits access to amples include 4-8 glucose tablets or 2 tablespoons of the airway or chest. Knowing how to deal properly with protec- honey) and reassessing blood glucose levels immedi- tive equipment during the immediate care of an athlete with atelyand 15 minutes later. Evidence Category: C a potential catastrophic cervical spine injury can greatly influ- 8. Severe hypoglycemia (ie, the athlete is unconscious or ence the outcome. Regardless of the sport or the equipment, unable to swallow or follow directions) is a medical 2 principles should guide management of the equipment-laden emergency, requiring activation of emergency medical athlete with a potential cervical spine injury: services (EMS) and, if the health care provider is prop- 1. Exposure and access to vital life functions (eg, airway, erly trained, administering glucagon. Evidence Cat- chest for CPR, or use of an AED) must be established or egory: C easily achieved in a reasonable and acceptable manner. 9. Athletic trainers should follow the ADA guidelines for 2. Neutral alignment of the cervical spine should be main- athletes exercising during hyperglycemic periods. Evi- tained while allowing as little motion at the head and dence Category: C neck as possible. Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 10. Physicians should determine a safe blood glucose range Return to Play. Return to play after cervical spine injury is to return an athlete to play after an episode of mild hypo- highly variable and may be permitted only after complete tis- glycemia or hyperglycemia. Evidence Category: C sue healing, neurologic recovery, and clearance by a physician. Factors considered for RTP include the level of injury, type of injury, number of levels fused for stability, cervical stenosis, Background and Literature Review and activity.66 Definition, Epidemiology, and Pathophysiology. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hy- DIABETES MELLITUS perglycemia, caused by either absolute insulin deficiency or resistance to the action of insulin at the cellular level, which Recommendations results in the inability to regulate blood glucose levels within Prevention the normal range of 70-110 mg/ dL. Type 1 diabetes is an auto- immune disorder stemming from a combination of genetic and 1. Each athlete with diabetes should have a diabetes care environmental factors. The autoimmune response is often trig- plan that includes blood glucose monitoring and insulin gered by an environmental event, such as a virus, and it targets guidelines, treatment guidelines for hypoglycemia and the insulin-secreting beta cells of the pancreas. When beta cell hyperglycemia, and emergency contact information. Ev- mass is reduced by approximately 80%, the pancreas is no lon- idence Category: C ger able to secrete sufficient insulin to compensate for hepatic 2. Prevention strategies for hypoglycemia include blood glucose outpUt.67,68 glucose monitoring, carbohydrate supplementation, and Prevention. Although the literature supports physical ac- insulin adjustments. Evidence Category: B tivity for people with type 1 diabetes, exercise training and 3. Prevention strategies for hyperglycemia are described by competition can result in major disturbances to blood glucose the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and include management. Extreme glycemic fluctuations (severe hypogly- blood glucose monitoring, insulin adjustments, and urine cemia or hyperglycemia with ketoacidosis) can lead to sudden testing for ketone bodies.67 Evidence Category: C death in athletes with type 1 diabetes mellitus.69-71 Preven- tion of these potentially life-threatening events begins with Recognition the creation of the diabetes care plan by a physician. The plan should identify blood glucose targets for practices and games, 4. Hypoglycemia typically presents with tachycardia, including exclusion thresholds; strategies to prevent exercise- sweating, palpitations, hunger, nervousness, headache, associated hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and ketosis; a list of trembling, or dizziness; in severe cases, loss of con- medications used for glycemic control; signs, symptoms, and sciousness and death can occur. Evidence Category: C treatment protocols for hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and ke- 5. Hyperglycemia can present with or without ketosis. tosis; and emergency contact information.72 Typical signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia without Preventing hypoglycemia relies on a 3-pronged approach of ketosis include nausea, dehydration, reduced cognitive frequent blood glucose monitoring, carbohydrate supplementa- performance, feelings of sluggishness, and fatigue. Evi- tion, and insulin adjustments. The athlete should check blood dence Category: C glucose levels 2 or 3 times before, every 30 minutes during, 6. Hyperglycemia with ketoacidosis may include the signs and every other hour up to 4 hours after exercise. Carbohy- and symptoms listed earlier as well as Kussmaul breath- drates should be eaten before, during, and after exercise; the ing (abnormally deep, very rapid sighing respirations quantity the athlete ingests depends on the prevailing blood characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis), fruity odor to glucose level and exercise intensity. Finally, some athletes the breath, unusual fatigue, sleepiness, loss of appetite, may use insulin adjustments to prevent hypoglycemia. These 102 Volume 47 Number 1 February 2012 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 102 Table 2. Treatment Guidelines for Mild and Severe Hypoglycemia76,77 Mild Hypoglycemia Severe Hypoglycemia 1. Give 10-15 g of fast-acting carbohydrate. Example: 4-8 glucose 1. Activate EMS. tablets, 2 Tbsp honey. 2. Prepare glucagon for injection, following directions in glucagon kit. 2. Measure blood glucose level. 3. Once athlete is conscious and able to swallow, provide food. 3. Wait 15 min and remeasure blood glucose level. 4. If blood glucose level remains low, administer another 10-15 g of fast-acting carbohydrate. 5. Recheck blood glucose level in 15 min. 6. If blood glucose level does not return to normal after second dose of carbohydrate, activate EMS. 7. Once blood glucose level normalizes, provide a snack (eg, sandwich, bagel). Abbreviation: EMS, emergency medical services. Revised with permission from Jimenez CC, Corcoran MH, Crawley JT, et al. National Athletic Trainers' Association position statement: management of the athlete with type I diabetes mellitus. J Athl Train. 2007;42(4):536-545. adjustments vary depending on the method of insulin deliv- glycemic periods. If the fasting blood glucose level is ~250 mg/ ery (insulin pump versus multiple daily injections), prevailing dL (~13.9 mmol/L), the athlete should test his or her urine for Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 blood glucose level, and exercise intensity.67,6s,73,74 the presence of ketones. If ketones are present, exercise is con- Athletes with type 1 diabetes may also experience hypergly- traindicated. If the blood glucose value is ~300 mg/dL (~16.7 cemia, with or without ketosis, during exercise. Hyperglycemia mmol/L) and without ketones, the athlete may exercise with during exercise is related to several factors, including exercise caution and continue to monitor blood glucose levels. Athletes intensity75,76and the psychological stress of competition.?? When should work with their physicians to determine the need for in- the insulin level is adequate, these episodes of hyperglycemia sulin adjustments for periods of hyperglycemia before, during, are transient. However, when the insulin level is insufficient, and after exercise.67 ketosis can occur. Exercise is contraindicated when ketones Return to Play. The literature does not address specific RTP are present in the urine. Athletic trainers should know the ADA guidelines after hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic events. There- guidelines for athletes exercising during an episode of hyper- fore, RTP for an athlete varies with the individual and becomes glycemia.67 In addition, the athlete's physician should determine easier as the AT works with the athlete on a regular basis and the need for insulin adjustments during hyperglycemic periods. learns how his or her blood glucose reacts to exercise and insu- Recognition. Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia typi- lin and glucose doses. The athlete should demonstrate a stable cally occur when blood glucose levels fall below 70 mg/dL blood glucose level that is within the normal range before RTP. (3.9 mmol/L). Early symptoms include tachycardia, sweating, Athletic trainers working with new athletes should seek guid- palpitations, hunger, nervousness, headache, trembling, and ance from the athlete, athlete's physician, and athlete's parents dizziness. These symptoms are related to the release of epi- to gain insight on how the athlete has been able to best control nephrine and acetylcholine. As the glucose level continues to the blood glucose level during exercise. fall, symptoms of brain neuronal glucose deprivation occur, in- cluding blurred vision, fatigue, difficulty thinking, loss of mo- EXERTIONAL HEAT STROKE tor control, aggressive behavior, seizures, convulsions, and loss of consciousness. If hypoglycemia is prolonged, severe brain Recommendations damage and even death can occur. Athletic trainers should be Prevention aware that the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia are indi- vidualized and be prepared to act accordingly.78-so 1. In conjunction with preseason screening, athletes should Although the signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia may be questioned about risk factors for heat illness or a his- vary from one athlete to another, they include nausea, dehydra- tory of heat illness. Evidence Category: C tion, reduced cognitive performance, slowing of visual reaction 2. Special considerations and modifications are needed for time, and feelings of sluggishness and fatigue. The signs and those wearing protective equipment during periods of symptoms of hyperglycemia with ketoacidosis may include high environmental stress. Evidence Category: B those listed earlier as well as Kussmaul breathing, fruity odor 3. Athletes should be acclimatized to the heat gradually to the breath, sleepiness, inattentiveness, loss of appetite, in- over a period of 7 to 14 days. Evidence Category: B creased thirst, and frequent urination. With severe ketoacidosis, 4. Athletes should maintain a consistent level of euhydra- the level of consciousness may be reduced. Athletic trainers tion and replace fluids lost through sweat during games should also be aware that some athletes with type 1 diabetes and practices. Athletes should have free access to readily intentionally train and compete in a hyperglycemic state (above available fluids at all times, not only during designated 180 mg/dL [10 mmol/L]) to avoid hypoglycemia. Competing in breaks. Evidence Category: B a hyperglycemic state places the athlete at risk for dehydration, 5. The sports medicine staff must educate relevant person- reduced athletic performance, and possibly ketosis.67,S! nel (eg, coaches, administrators, security guards, EMS Treatment and Management. Treatment guidelines for staff, athletes) about preventing exertional heat stroke mild and severe cases of hypoglycemia are shown in Table (EHS) and the policies and procedures that are to be fol- 2.S2,S3The ADA provides guidelines for exercise during hyper- lowed in the event of an incident. Signs and symptoms of Journal of Athletic Training 103 JAT 47-1 12_casa.096-118.indd 103 a medical emergency should also be reviewed. Evidence As air temperature increases, thermal strain increases, but Category: C if relative humidity increases as well, the body loses its ability to use evaporation as a cooling method (the main method used Recognition during exercise in the heat).87,94-97 Adding heavy or extensive protective equipment also increases the potential risk, not only 6. The 2 main criteria for diagnosis of EHS are (1) core because of the extra weight but also as a barrier to evaporation body temperature of greater than 104° to 105°F (40.0° and cooling. Therefore, extreme or new environmental condi- to 40.5°C) taken via a rectal thermometer soon after col- tions should be approached with caution and practices altered lapse and (2) CNS dysfunction (including disorientation, and events canceled as appropriate. confusion, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of balance, Acclimatization is a physiologic response to repeated heat staggering, irritability, irrational or unusual behavior, ap- exposure during exercise over the course of 10 to 14 daYS.9O,98 athy, aggressiveness, hysteria, delirium, collapse, loss of This response enables the body to cope better with thermal consciousness, and coma). Evidence Category: B stressors and includes increases in stroke volume, sweat output, 7. Rectal temperature and gastrointestinal temperature (if sweat rate, and evaporation of sweat and decreases in heart rate, available) are the only methods proven valid for accurate core body temperature, skin temperature, and sweat salt 10sses.9O temperature measurement in a patient with EHS. Inferior Athletes should be allowed to acclimatize to the heat before temperature assessment devices should not be relied on stressful conditions such as full equipment, multiple practices in the absence of a valid device. Evidence Category: B within a day, or performance trials are implemented.91,93 Hydration can help reduce heart rate, fatigue, and core body Treatment temperature while improving performance and cognitive func- 8. Core body temperature must be reduced to less than tioning.96-98Dehydration of as little as 2% of body weight has Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 102°F (38.9°C) as soon as possible to limit morbidity and a negative effect on performance and thermoregulation.87 Cau- mortality. Cold-water immersion is the fastest cooling tion should be taken to ensure that athletes arrive at practice modality. If that is not available, cold-water dousing or wet euhydrated (eg, having reestablished their weight since the ice towel rotation may be used to assist with cooling, but last practice) and maintain or replace fluids that are lost during these methods have not been shown to be as effective as practice. cold- water immersion. Athletes should be cooled first and Assessment. The 2 main diagnostic criteria for EHS are then transported to a hospital unless cooling and proper CNS dysfunction and a core body temperature of greater than medical care are unavailable onsite. Evidence Category: B 104° to 105°F (40.0° to 4O.5 C).99-101The only accurate mea- 0 9. Current suggestions include a period of no activity, an surements of core body temperature are via rectal thermometry asymptomatic state, and normal blood enzyme levels be- or ingestible thermistors.102 Other devices, such as oral, axillary, fore the athlete begins a gradual return-to-activity pro- aural canal, and temporal artery thermometers, are inaccurate gression under direct medical supervision. This progres- methods of assessing body temperature in an exercising person. sion should start at low intensity in a cool environment A delay in accurate temperature assessment must also be con- and slowly advance to high-intensity exercise in a warm sidered during diagnosis and may explain body temperatures environment. Evidence Category: C that are lower than expected. Lastly, in some cases of EHS, the patient has a lucid interval during which he or she is cogni- tively normal, followed by rapidly deteriorating symptoms.86 Background and Literature Review Due to policy and legal concerns in some settings, obtain- Definition, Epidemiology, and Pathophysiology. Exer- ing rectal temperature may not be feasible. Because immediate tional heat stroke is classified as a core body temperature of treatment is critical in EHS, it is important to not waste time greater than 104° to 105°F (40.0° to 40.soC) with associated by substituting an invalid method of temperature assessment. CNS dysfunction.84-87 The CNS dysfunction may present as Instead, the practitioner should rely on other key diagnostic in- disorientation, confusion, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, loss dicators (eg, CNS dysfunction, circumstances of the collapse). of balance, staggering, irritability, irrational or unusual behav- If EHS is suspected, cold-water immersion should be initiated ior, apathy, aggressiveness, hysteria, delirium, collapse, loss of at once. The evidence strongly indicates that in patients with consciousness, and coma. Other signs and symptoms that may suspected EHS, prompt determination of rectal temperature be present are dehydration, hot and wet skin, hypotension, and followed by aggressive, whole-body cold-water immersion hyperventilation. Most athletes with EHS will have hot, sweaty maximizes the chances for survival. Practitioners in settings skin as opposed to the dry skin that is a manifestation of classi- in which taking rectal temperature is a concern should consult cal EHS.84,85,88,89 with their administrators in advance. Athletic trainers, in con- Although it is usually among the top 3 causes of death in junction with their supervising physicians, should clearly com- athletes, EHS may rise to the primary cause during the sum- municate to their administrators the dangers of skipping this mer.89The causes of EHS are multifactorial, but the ultimate re- important step and should obtain a definitive ruling on how to sult is an overwhelming of the thermoregulatory system, which proceed in this situation. causes a buildup of heat within the body.84,9Q.-92 Treatment. The goal for any EHS victim is to lower the Prevention. Exercise intensity can increase core body tem- body temperature to 102°F (38.9°C) or less within 30 minutes perature faster and higher than any other factor.85 Poor physical of collapse. The length of time body temperature is above the condition is also related to intensity. Athletes who are less fit critical core temperature (-105°F [40.soC]) dictates any mor- than their teammates must work at a higher intensity to produce bidity and the risk of death from EHS.103 Cold-water immer- the same outcome. Therefore, it is important to alter exercise sion is the most effective cooling modality for patients with intensity and rest breaks when environmental conditions are EHS.104,105 The water should be approximately 35°F (1.7°C) to dangerous.93 59°F (I5.0°C) and continuously stirred to maximize cooling. 104 Volume 47 Number 1 February 2012 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 104 The athlete should be removed when core body temperature of hypotonic fluid. Athletes should be educated about reaches 102°F (38.9°) to prevent overcooling. If appropriate proper fluid and sodium replacement during exercise. medical care is available, cooling should be completed before Evidence Category: C the athlete is transported to a hospital. Although cooling rates with cold-water immersion will vary for numerous reasons (eg, Recognition amount of body immersed, body type, temperature of water, amount of stirring), a general rule of thumb is that the cooling 6. Athletic trainers should recognize EH signs and symp- rate will be about 0.2°C/min (0.37°F/min) or about 1° C every toms during or after exercise, including overdrinking, 5 minutes (or 1°F every 3 minutes) when considering the entire nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscular twitching, periph- immersion period from postcollapse to 39°C (102°F).86,105If eral tingling or swelling, headache, disorientation, altered cold-water immersion is not available, other modalities, such as mental status, physical exhaustion, pulmonary edema, wet ice towels rotated and placed over the entire body or cold- seizures, and cerebral edema. Evidence Category: B water dousing with or without fanning, may be used but are not 7. In severe cases, EH encephalopathy can occur and the as effective. Policies and procedures for cooling athletes be- athlete may present with confusion, altered CNS func- fore transport to the hospital must be explicitly clear and shared tion, seizures, and a decreased level of consciousness. with potential EMS responders, so that treatment by all medical Evidence Category: B professionals involved with a patient with EHS is coordinated. 8. The AT should include EH in differential diagnoses until Return to Play. Structured guidelines for RTP after EHS confirmed otherwise. Evidence Category: C are lacking. The main considerations are treating any associ- ated sequelae and, if possible, identifying the cause of the EHS, Treatment and Management so that future episodes can be prevented. Many patients with Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 EHS are cooled effectively and sent home the same day; they 9. If an athlete's mental status deteriorates or if he or she may be able to resume modified activity within 1 to 3 weeks. initially presents with severe symptoms of EH, IV hy- However, when treatment is delayed, patients may experience pertonic saline (3% to 5%) is indicated. Evidence Cat- residual complications for months or years after the event. egory: B Most guidelines suggest that the athlete be asymptomatic with 10. Athletes with mild symptoms, normal total body water normal blood work (renal and hepatic panels, electrolytes, and volume, and a mildly altered blood sodium level (130 to muscle enzyme levels) before a gradual return to activity is ini- 135 mEq/L; normal is 135 to 145 mEq/L) should restrict tiated.106Unfortunately, no evidence-based tools are available to fluids and consume salty foods or a small volume of oral determine whether the body's thermoregulatory system is fully hypertonic solution (eg, 3 to 5 bouillon cubes dissolved recovered. In summary, in all cases of EHS, after the athlete has in 240 mL of hot water). Evidence Category: C completed a 7-day rest period and obtained normal blood work 11. The athlete with severe EH should be transported to an and physician clearance, he or she may begin a progression of advanced medical facility during or after treatment. Evi- physical activity, supervised by the AT, from low intensity to dence Category: B high intensity and increasing duration in a temperate environ- 12. Return to activity should be guided by a plan to avoid fu- ment, followed by the same progression in a warm to hot envi- ture EH episodes, specifically an individualized hydra- ronment. The ability to progress depends largely on the treatment tion plan, as described earlier. Evidence Category: C provided, and in some rare cases full recovery may not be pos- sible. If the athlete experiences any side effects or negative Background and Literature Review symptoms with training, the progression should be slowed or delayed. Definition, Epidemiology, and Pathophysiology. Ex- ertional hyponatremia is a rare condition defined as a serum sodium concentration less than 130 mEq/L.107Although no inci- EXERTIONAL HYPONATREMIA dence data are available from organized athletics, the condition is seen in fewer than 1% of military athletes108and up to 30% of Recommendations distance athletes.107,109 Signs and symptoms of EH include over- Prevention drinking, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscular twitching, pe- ripheral tingling or swelling, headache, disorientation, altered 1. Each physically active person should establish an indi- mental status, physical exhaustion, pulmonary edema, seizures, vidualized hydration protocol based on personal sweat and cerebral edema. If not treated properly and promptly, EH is rate, sport dynamics (eg, rest breaks, fluid access), potentially fatal because of the encephalopathy. Low serum so- environmental factors, acclimatization state, exercise dium levels are identified more often in females than in males duration, exercise intensity, and individual preferences. and during activity that exceeds 4 hours in duration.107,110Two Evidence Category: B common, often additive scenarios occur when an athlete in- 2. Athletes should consume adequate dietary sodium at gests hypotonic beverages well beyond sweat losses (ie, water meals when physical activity occurs in hot environ- intoxication) or an athlete's sweat sodium losses are not ad- ments. Evidence Category: B equately replaced.111-114Water intoxication causes low serum 3. Postexercise rehydration should aim to correct fluid loss sodium levels because of a combination of excessive fluid accumulated during activity. Evidence Category: B intake and inappropriate body water retention. Insufficient 4. Body weight changes, urine color, and thirst offer cues sodium replacement causes low serum sodium levels when to the need for rehydration. Evidence Category: A high sweat sodium content leads to decreased serum sodium 5. Most cases of exertional hyponatremia (EH) occur in levels (which may occur over 3 to 5 days). In both scenarios, endurance athletes who ingest an excessive amount EH causes intracellular swelling due to hypotonic intravascular Journal of Athletic Training 105 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 105 and extracellular fluids. This, in tum, leads to potentially fatal over several hours. The most efficient method of diagnosing neurologic and physiologic dysfunction. When physically ac- EH onsite is the use of a handheld analyzer, which can identify tive people match fluid and sodium losses, via sweat and urine, the serum sodium concentration within minutes.1l3,114Athletic with overall intake, EH is prevented.94,115Successful treatment trainers should work with physicians and EMS to maximize ac- of EH involves rapid sodium replacement in sufficient con- cess to these analyzers when EH is likely. centrations via foods containing high levels of sodium (minor A collapsed, semiconscious, or unconscious athlete should be cases) or hypertonic saline IV infusion (for moderate or severe evaluated for all potential causes of sudden death in sport. The cases). key to the differential diagnosis of EH is serum sodium assess- Prevention. Exertional hyponatremia is most effectively ment, which should be conducted when EH is suspected.1l3,114 prevented when individualized hydration protocols are used If a portable serum sodium analyzer is not available, it is then for the physically active, including hydration before, during, necessary to rule out other conditions that may warrant onsite and after exercise.94,115This strategy should take into account treatment (eg, EHS) before emergency transport.91 sweat rate, sport dynamics (eg, rest breaks, fluid access), envi- Treatment. If the athlete's mental status deteriorates or if he ronmental factors, acclimatization state, exercise duration, ex- or she initially presents with severe symptoms, IV hypertonic ercise intensity, and individual preferences. The strategy should saline (3% to 5%) is indicated.91,1l3,114 Intravenous hypertonic guide hydration before, during, and after activity to approxi- saline rapidly corrects the symptoms ofEH and decreases intra- mate sweat losses but ensure that fluids are not consumed in ex- cellular fluid volume. Serial measures of blood sodium should cess. This goal can be achieved by calculating individual sweat be obtained throughout treatment (after every 100 mL of IV = rates (sweat rate pre-exercise body weight-postexercise body fluid). To avoid complications, hypertonic saline administration weight + fluid intake + urine volume/exercise time, in hours) for should be discontinued when the serum sodium concentration a representative range of environmental conditions and exercise reaches 128 to 130 mEqILY4 Normal saline (0.9% NaCI) IV Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 intensities. Suggestions for expediting this procedure can be fluids should not be provided to patients without prior serum found in the NATA position statement on fluid replacement.94 sodium assessment.113,114Ideally, the ATs have discussed with Sweat rate calculation is the most fundamental consideration EMS in the off-season the importance of having a portable so- when establishing a rehydration protocol. Average sweat rates dium analyzer available and being ready to administer hyper- from the scientific literature or other athletes vary from 0.5 L/h tonic saline during transport. to more than 2.5 L/h.115 Athletes with mild symptoms, normal total body water vol- Dietary sodium is important for normal body maintenance ume, and a mildly altered blood sodium concentration (130 to of fluid balance and can help prevent muscle cramping, heat 135 mEqIL) should restrict fluids and consume salty foods or exhaustion, and EH.91 The AT should encourage adequate di- a small volume of oral hypertonic solution (eg, 3 to 5 bouillon etary sodium intake, especially when athletes are training in a cubes dissolved in 240 mL of hot water). This can be continued hot environment and as a part of daily meals.116 Sport drinks until diuresis and correction of the blood sodium concentration generally contain low levels of sodium relative to blood and occur; such management may take hours to complete, but it is do little to attenuate decreases in whole-body sodium levels. successful in stable patients.114 Instead, athletes should consume foods that are high in sodium The patient with severe EH should be transported to an (eg, canned soups, pretzels) during meals before and after ex- advanced medical facility during or after treatment. Once the ercise. Including sodium in fluid-replacement beverages should patient arrives at the emergency department, a plasma osmolal- be considered under the following conditions: inadequate ac- ity assessment is performed to identify hypovolemia or hyper- cess to meals, physical activity exceeding 2 hours in duration, volemia. Patients with persistent hypovolemia despite normal and during the initial days to weeks of hot weather.94,115Under serum sodium values should receive 0.9% NaCI IV until eu- these conditions, adding salt in amounts of 0.3 to 0.7 gIL can volemia is reached. The progress of symptoms and blood so- offset salt losses in sweat and minimize medical events associ- dium levels determines the follow-up care.119 ated with electrolyte imbalances. Return to Play. When EH is treated appropriately with IV Postexercise hydration should aim to correct the fluid loss hypertonic saline, chronic morbidity is rare. Literature docu- accumulated during activity.94,115Ideally completed within 2 menting the expected time course of recovery after EH is lack- hours, rehydration fluids should contain water, carbohydrates ing, but recovery seems to depend on the severity and duration to replenish glycogen stores, and electrolytes to speed rehy- of brain swelling. Rapid recognition and prompt treatment re- dration. When rehydration must be rapid (within 2 hours), the duce the risk of CNS damage.l20 athlete should compensate for obligatory urine losses incurred Return to activity should be guided by a plan to avoid fu- during the rehydration process and drink about 25% more than ture EH episodes, specifically an individualized hydration plan sweat losses to ensure optimal hydration 4 to 6 hours after the (documented earlier).94,115This plan should also be based on the event.ll7 However, athletes should not drink enough to gain history and factors that contributed to the initial EH episode. weight beyond pre-exercise measurements.94,115,116 Body weight changes, urine color, and thirst offer cues to the need for rehydration.118 When preparing for an event, an EXERTIONAL SICKLING athlete should know his or her sweat rate and pre-exercise hy- dration status and develop a rehydration plan (discussed in de- Recommendations tail in the recommendations).94,115 If the athlete's specific needs are unknown, the athlete should not drink beyond thirst. Prevention Recognition. The AT should recognize and the physically active should be educated on EH signs and symptoms during 1. The AT should educate coaches, athletes, and, as war- exercise.1l3,114,116 After an exercise bout or competition, symp- ranted, parents about complications of exertion in the ath- toms of EH may appear immediately or gradually progress lete with sickle cell trait (SCT). Evidence Category: C 106 Volume 47 Number 1 February 2012 JAT 47·1 12_casa.096·118.indd 106 2. Targeted education and tailored precautions may provide training progression that allows longer periods of rest and re- a margin of safety for the athlete with SCT. Evidence covery between repetitions.123,125Strength and conditioning Category: C programs may increase preparedness but must be sport specific. 3. Athletes with known SCT should be allowed longer Athletes with SCT should be excluded from participation in periods of rest and recovery between conditioning rep- performance tests, such as mile runs and serial sprints, because etitions, be excluded from participation in performance several deaths have occurred in this setting.l24 Cessation of tests such as mile runs and serial sprints, adjust work- activity with the onset of symptoms is essential to avoid es- rest cycles in the presence of environmental heat stress, calating a sickling episode (eg, muscle cramping, pain, swell- emphasize hydration, control asthma (if present), not ing, weakness, and tenderness; inability to catch one's breath; work out if feeling ill, and have supplemental oxygen fatigue).123,I25In general, when athletes with SCT set their own available for training or competition when new to a pace, they seem to do well.123,125 Therefore, athletes with SCT high-altitude environment. Evidence Category: B who perform repetitive high-speed sprints, distance runs, or in- terval training that induces high levels of lactic acid as a com- ponent of a sport-specific training regimen should be allowed Recognition extended recovery between repetitions because this type of 4. Screening for SCT, by self-report, is a standard compo- conditioning poses special risks to them.123,125 nent of the preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE) Factors such as ambient heat stress, dehydration, asthma, ill- monograph. Testing for SCT, when included in the PPE ness, and altitude predispose the athlete with SCT to a crisis or conducted previously, confirms SCT status. Evidence during physical exertion, even when exercise is not all-out. 123,125 Category: A Extra precautions are warranted in these conditions. These pre- 5. The AT should know the signs and symptoms of exer- cautions may include the following: Downloaded from http://meridian.allenpress.com/doi/pdf/10.4085/1062-6050-47.1.96 by guest on 19 August 2022 tional sickling, which include muscle cramping, pain, Work-rest cycles should be adjusted for environmental swelling, weakness, and tenderness; inability to catch heat stress. one's breath; and fatigue, and be able to differentiate ex- Hydration should be emphasized. ertional sickling from other causes of collapse. Evidence Asthma should be controlled. Category: C The athlete with SCT who is ill should not work out. 6. The AT should understand the usual settings for and pat- The athlete with SCT who is new to a high-altitude en- terns of exertional sickling. Evidence Category: C vironment should be watched closely. Training should be modified and supplemental oxygen should be available for competitions. Treatment One last precaution is to create an environment that en- courages athletes with SCT to immediately report any signs or 7. Signs and symptoms of exertional sickling warrant imme- symptoms such as leg or low back cramping, difficulty breath- diate withdrawal from activity. Evidence Category: C ing, or fatigue. Such signs and symptoms in an athlete with 8. High-flow oxygen at 15 Llmin with a nonrebreather face SCT should be assumed to represent sickling.123 mask should be administered. Evidence Category: C Recognition. The PPE monograph14 recommends screen- 9. The AT should monitor vital signs and activate the EAP ing for SCT with the question, "Do you or [does] someone in if vital signs decline. Evidence Category: C your family have SCT or disease?" Small numbers of affected 10. Sicklin

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