At just 28 years old, Xiao Li experienced a sudden collapse on the basketball court two weeks ago. “My chest tightened, my legs gave out, and my vision blurred.For a moment, I thought I was dying, and then everything went black,” he recalled. Rushed to the hospital,doctors couldn’t pinpoint the cause. assuming it was exhaustion from playing, Xiao Li dismissed the incident.
Two days later,while engrossed in a video game late at night,he felt a sharp,persistent chest pain lasting over 30 minutes.Remembering his earlier fainting episode, he panicked and called for an ambulance.
By early morning, Xiao Li was admitted to the emergency room at Zhejiang Qiushi Cardiovascular Hospital. “I felt nauseous, my heart was racing, and I thought I’d pass out again,” he described, clutching his chest. Doctors recorded his heart rate at 130 beats per minute,signaling a critical condition.
Dr.Xin Minghua, head of the Heart Failure Department, conducted a comprehensive series of tests, including blood and urine analyses, hypertension screening, electrocardiograms, abdominal ultrasounds, cranial MRIs, and advanced cardiac imaging. While initial results showed no abnormalities, a coronary CTA revealed the underlying issue.
The coronary angiography results were alarming: 40% blockage in the left main artery, 85%-90% narrowing at the anterior descending artery’s opening, 70%-80% constriction in its mid-section, and calcified plaques in the proximal wall. Most concerning was the complete blockage in the right coronary artery’s proximal segment.
Dr. Xin explained that Xiao Li’s condition was severe. Despite his young age, calcified plaque had built up in his coronary arteries, causing significant blockages.After ruling out other potential causes, the diagnosis pointed to coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, likely stemming from Kawasaki disease in childhood.
Xiao Li’s childhood memories supported this diagnosis. “I remember having a high fever for 15 days, a red rash all over my body, and red bumps on my tongue. back then, we thought it was just a fever with a rash,” he shared.
Kawasaki disease,or mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome,is a childhood illness characterized by fever,rashes,and systemic inflammation of blood vessels. If untreated, it can lead to severe coronary complications like artery dilation or aneurysms, impacting heart health long-term.
With Xiao Li and his family’s consent, doctors performed an interventional procedure on the anterior descending artery, placing a stent at the affected site. The surgery was accomplished, and post-discharge, Xiao li reported no further symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. A follow-up procedure to address the right coronary artery blockage is scheduled for a month later.
Dr. Xin emphasized that individuals with elevated risk factors for cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes, must remain vigilant about their health. Here are some essential steps to follow:
1. Adopt a diet low in sodium and saturated fats, engage in moderate physical activity, ensure regular bowel movements, avoid overexertion, cultivate a positive mindset, and maintain a consistent daily routine.
2. Regularly track blood pressure, heart rate, and glucose levels, and consult with cardiology and endocrinology experts to adjust medications as needed.
3. For those diagnosed with coronary artery disease, it is crucial to adhere to prescribed medications long-term and avoid discontinuing them without medical advice.
4. Post-discharge, schedule comprehensive health assessments within 1-3 months, including liver and kidney function tests, electrolyte levels, lipid profiles, blood counts, HsCRP, electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. follow up with ambulatory electrocardiograms and blood pressure checks every 3-6 months, and continue regular evaluations under the supervision of a cardiologist.
(original title: Sudden Collapse on the Court: The Hidden Cause Behind a 28-Year-Old’s fainting Episode During Basketball)
Source: Metropolis Express Author: reporter Jin Jing Correspondent Wang Huinan Editor: Gao Tingting
The Alarming Case of Xiao Li: A Wake-Up Call for Athletes and Health Awareness
The story of Xiao Li, a 28-year-old basketball player, is a stark reminder that health issues can strike even the most active and seemingly fit individuals. His recent collapse on the basketball court and subsequent medical diagnosis have shed light on the importance of understanding cardiovascular health, especially among young athletes.
The Incident on the Court
Two weeks ago, Xiao Li experienced a sudden and frightening collapse during a basketball game. He described symptoms of chest tightness,blurred vision,and a momentary loss of consciousness. “I thought I was dying,” he recalled. Initially, doctors attributed the incident to exhaustion, and xiao li brushed it off as a one-off event. However, this was just the beginning of a more serious underlying issue.
Escalation of Symptoms
Two days later, while playing a video game late at night, Xiao Li felt a sharp, persistent chest pain that lasted over 30 minutes. Recognizing the severity of the situation, he immediately called for an ambulance. He was rushed to Zhejiang Qiushi Cardiovascular Hospital, where his heart rate was recorded at a dangerously high 130 beats per minute.
Diagnosis: A Shocking Revelation
Dr. Xin Minghua, head of the Heart Failure Department, conducted a series of complete tests, including blood and urine analyses, electrocardiograms, abdominal ultrasounds, cranial MRIs, and advanced cardiac imaging. While initial results showed no abnormalities, a coronary CTA revealed severe blockages in Xiao Li’s coronary arteries.
The coronary angiography results were particularly alarming:
- 40% blockage in the left main artery
- 85%-90% narrowing at the anterior descending artery’s opening
- 70%-80% constriction in its mid-section
- Complete blockage in the right coronary artery’s proximal segment
Dr. Xin explained that despite Xiao Li’s young age, calcified plaque had built up in his coronary arteries, leading to significant blockages. After ruling out othre potential causes, the diagnosis pointed to coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, likely stemming from Kawasaki disease in childhood.
Implications for Athletes and Health Awareness
Xiao Li’s case highlights several critical points for athletes and the general public:
- Cardiovascular Health Can Affect Anyone: Even young, physically active individuals are not immune to heart disease. Regular health check-ups, especially for athletes, are essential to detect underlying conditions early.
- kawasaki Disease and long-Term Effects: Kawasaki disease, a childhood illness that affects blood vessels, can have long-term cardiovascular consequences. Those with a history of the disease should undergo regular cardiac evaluations.
- Recognizing Symptoms: Chest pain,dizziness,and rapid heart rate are warning signs that should never be ignored. Immediate medical attention can prevent life-threatening complications.
- Importance of advanced Diagnostics: In cases like Xiao Li’s, standard tests may not reveal the full extent of the problem.Advanced imaging techniques, such as coronary CTA, are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
A Call to Action
Xiao li’s story serves as a wake-up call for athletes,coaches,and healthcare providers. It underscores the need for heightened awareness of cardiovascular health and the importance of early intervention. as we continue to celebrate the physical prowess of athletes, we must also prioritize their well-being and ensure they have access to the necessary medical support.
Let this case be a reminder: health is the ultimate foundation of performance, and taking proactive steps to safeguard it is not optional—it’s essential.
