Assessment of cardiovascular conditions in the athlete

A thorough cardiac history should include any family history of sudden cardiac death before age 50. Symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or syncope during or after exercise might indicate underlying cardiac pathology. Inspection and observation of the athlete provide the first signs that an athlete is developing cardiac distress. Auscultation of the heart should be performed with the athlete in both seated and standing positions. Murmurs should be evaluated an the basis of intensity, loudness, location, and timing during the cycle (between the first and second heart sounds).