Ask Dr. Vieder
When my son gets his sports physical for school, how thoroughly should I expect his heart to be examined?
The pre-participation physical (often referred to as the sports physical or camp physical) is meant to identify a number of potential early warning
signs that an athlete may have a more signifi cant underlying health concern. We screen for visual problems, kidney function and diabetes in
addition to cardiovascular and pulmonary symptoms. The key components to this process are providing the physician with honest responses to
a series of questions meant to screen for potential heart ailments, including chest pain or discomfort with exertion, fainting spells, excessive
fatigue or shortness of breath with activity. The second component is the physical exam, which specifi cally looks at blood pressure, heart rate
and assessment for heart murmurs or abnormal breath sounds. If the history or physical exam reveals any potential heart or lung issues, then
additional testing is recommended. Additional testing may be required If there are other signs and symptoms suggesting a possible problem such
as diabetes or kidney disease.
What are some things to be concerned about and what happens if additional testing is needed?
If additional testing is indicated, the clearance for participation may be delayed. Typically, additional tests for heart and lung symptoms may
include a chest x-ray, EKG and possibly an echocardiogram (ultrasound exam of the heart), which is an excellent way to screen the heart for
structural problems, without using any radiation. Starting September 24th, Lakes Urgent Care will offer echocardiograms for any patient where it
may be indicated or in the event a parent wants their athlete screened because of a family history of heart problems such
as cardiomyopathy (abnormal enlargement of the heart chambers). The echocardiogram may also be recommended if
your student has abnormal blood pressure, any warning signs or symptoms or an abnormal EKG.
If my son just had his annual physical, does he still need a sports physical?
Under most circumstances, if your son or daughter just recently had a complete annual physical, your primary care
physician will be happy to complete the required sports physical paperwork for you. However, if it’s after hours or you
haven’t had that annual physical yet (which we always strongly recommend be done with your primary care physician
or pediatrician), but need to turn in the paperwork, you can feel confi dent that Lakes Urgent Care will give your son or
daughter a complete sports physical including additional testing if indicated. We always offer to share any evaluation or
testing recommended or completed at Lakes Urgent Care with your primary care physician.
For more health information, visit the Ask Dr. Vieder page at LakesUrgentCare.com
Dr. Sanford Vieder, DO, FACEP, FACOEP, Medical Director at Lakes Urgent Care, West Bloomfi eld/Livonia
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August 30 • 2018
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