ST Depression

Higher Risk

Your child participated in a cardiac screening with Who We Play For. An ECG was performed and reviewed by a licensed Cardiologist with specific training on reading ECGs according to the International Criteria.

Initial findings of that ECG indicate that secondary testing is necessary.

What does it mean to have an abnormal ECG?

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High Risk ECG Flag

  • Having a high risk flag means the pediatric cardiologist reading the ECG sees an abnormality suggesting a condition that has a higher likelihood of leading to Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

    If you or your child have received a high risk flag, you should schedule an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist as soon as possible.

  • It is recommended by the WWPF Medical Advisory Team that anyone flagged high risk under the WWPF guidelines should be removed from all physical activity and be seen by a pediatric cardiologist as soon as possible.

  • If there was a high risk flag on an ECG, the person should see a pediatric cardiologist right away, but if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms it would be cause for immediate medical attention:

    • Fainting or seizures during or immediately following exercise.

    • Unexplained shortness of breath.

    • Dizziness.

    • Extreme fatigue.

    • Racing heart (feels like it is beating out of your chest).

    • Sudden and unexplained death of a family member under the age of 50.

    If you experience any of these symptoms get an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist right away.

What is ST Depression?

According to the American Heart Association, a significant ST depression shows the heart straining. Stressful conditions can cause the heart to be under stress, but doesn't always mean the heart is diseased. ST depression is the most common cause of abnormal ECGs in people with normal hearts. However, a significant ST depression can appear as one of the many indicators of heart disease and impending cardiac arrest.

While rare in athletes, any time an ST depression appears on an ECG it should be investigated further.

For this reason, it is important to follow up with a Cardiologist to determine your child's continued participation in athletics and activities.

Diagnosis:

ST Depression: ST depression greater than 0.5mm below PR isoelectric line between J-junction and beginning of T wave greater than 0.5mm in any of the lateral leads (I, AVL, V5, V6) and greater than 1mm in any lead.

Family History: Review family history

Consult: Pediatric Cardiologist

Secondary Test Might Include:

  • Echocardiogram

  • Stress Test

  • Cardiac MRI

Your child should not participate in activities in any way until you seek the advice of a Specialist for a more detailed examination.

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