Brugada Syndrome - Exercise Recommendations

Brugada syndrome is one of the conditions rarely associated with sudden death in young athletes. That said, those with it do need to limit their activity in specific ways.

What Is Brugada Syndrome?

Brugada syndrome is a congenital abnormality in the heart's electrical system. It is seen in young patients (usually in their 20s and 30s, although it can be seen in older people as well), and can lead to sudden death from ventricular fibrillation. The sudden death in Brugada syndrome is most commonly seen at night, during sleep, and is only uncommonly related to exercise. However, there is some evidence that hyperthermia (high body temperature, a common feature during sustained exercise) may make arrhythmias more likely with Brugada syndrome.

What Are the General Exercise Recommendations For Young Athletes With Brugada Syndrome?

The 2005 36th Bethesda Conference on Eligibility Recommendations for Competitive Athletes with Cardiovascular Abnormalities recommends that people with Brugada syndrome avoid high-intensity exercise - even though sudden death in this syndrome is uncommon during exercise. This is because of the possible negative impact of hyperthermia.

_Sources:

_{Zipes, DP, Ackerman, MJ, Estes NA, 3rd, et al. Task Force 7: arrhythmias. J Am Coll Cardiol 2005; 45:1354.}