SADS Awareness Video

Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome (SADS) Awareness : 

Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome (SADS) Awareness By: Kaitlyn O’Connor For Additional Information Contact: Kaitlyn O’Connor krocasoca@aol.com (718) 967 - 5104

What is SADS? : 

What is SADS? SADS = Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes The SADS foundation has been established to save lives and support families of those (esp. children and young adults) who are genetically predisposed to sudden death due to a heart abnormality. It is estimated that more than 1 in 2500 people have SADS conditions, and up to 3000 young people die from Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) each year. For more information, go to: http://www.sads.org/.

What is Long QT Syndrome? : 

What is Long QT Syndrome? Long QT Syndrome, or LQTS, is an example of one of these conditions. LQTS is a disturbance of the heart’s electrical system, causing an abnormality of the heartbeat, or rhythm of the heart. Because of this abnormality, affected people are vulnerable to sudden fainting or even sudden death. Most often, these events occur during physical exertion, or emotional stress. Since many young children are actively involved in sports, as well as burdened by school and other activities, it is important to know the facts about this condition, and look out for any type of symptom, because it can cause great harm.

My LQTS Experience : 

My LQTS Experience I had been active in premier level soccer on Staten Island and NYC since the 3rd grade I was clinically diagnosed with LQTS in 2009 and prohibited from playing competitive sports beginning in 2010 My family now has an AED and I am also on beta blocker medication Thankfully, my risk is now low compared to other youth with LQTS and SADS conditions I’ve made some lifestyle changes, but still stay involved in sports by supporting my St Joseph Hill high school team and managing their website (www.hilltoppersoccerstatenisland.com) I am very fortunate to know I have the condition

What are the symptoms of LQTS? : 

What are the symptoms of LQTS? There are a few key symptoms present in those with Long QT Syndrome: Fainting episodes during or immediately after physical activity. Fainting as a result of emotional excitement, distress, or startle. Family history of unexplained death below age 40

Ways to prevent LQTS : 

Ways to prevent LQTS If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to go to a cardiologist as soon as possible. The doctor will diagnose the condition from reading an ECG, or from an exercise stress test. The doctor will then provide medication, or send you to another doctor to verify the diagnosis. The medicine received will treat LQTS, but the risk of having an arrhythmia is still present. This is why it is important to restrain from strenuous physical activity or situations that stress you out.

Living with LQTS : 

Living with LQTS Yes, living with LQTS can be hard to deal with, especially if you enjoy sports. It is important to remember that you are lucky to know about your condition. Many people are unaware that they have LQTS, and since they haven’t received treatment, they are at great risk. There are many other activities out there that don’t induce physical or emotional stress, so try to start something new, maybe you’ll wind up loving it more than what you previously did. Also, try to spread awareness like me, you may be surprised in knowing how many lives you can save.

What Can Teachers & Coaches Do? : 

What Can Teachers & Coaches Do? Assure an AED is available at all sporting events Stay current on CPR training Add a simple question to league, club and other sports registrations “Have you or a family member ever had unexplained dizziness or fainting, or has a family member ever had an unexplained sudden death” If the answer is yes, ask them to see a doctor before registering

What Can Other Leaders in the Staten Island Community Do? : 

What Can Other Leaders in the Staten Island Community Do? Politicians: Work with local hospitals or the fire department to have an ambulance on call at Miller Field Media: Publish informational stories on SADS and LQTS as part of a youth athletics educational series Sports Clubs: Share this information with your coaches

Sources : 

Sources My doctor, Brian O’Connor, and the SADS foundation, have been a great source of support and information: http://www.sads.org/ Teacher Information: http://www.sads.org/images/stories/pdf/school/Teacher.pdf Coach Information: http://www.sads.org/images/stories/pdf/school/Coach.pdf