Get an Expert Sports Screening Physical Examination / Sports Cardiology
Getting a thorough sports screening physical examination / sports cardiology is important before starting in sports, or after an injury. This testing may enable some problems to be detected and then treated before engaging in strenuous sports that may trigger a serious problem.
Get Clearance
In many states, students in high school or college are required to get sports physical before participating in them. Detecting health problems before they cause serious injury, or even hospitalization or death, can often be prevented by getting a physical exam beforehand. After an injury, getting a sports physical is also a good idea to prevent a reoccurrence of the injury, and to determine when it has been sufficiently healed.
Health Problems
A number of health problems can limit an athlete from successfully participating in sports. These need to be detected beforehand, but some problems may already be evident, such as limitations in mobility, asthma, high blood pressure, etc.
Medical History
Prior to the exam, the individual getting the checkup will be given a form to reveal their medical history. This form will ask what illnesses they have already had, as well as if they have ever been hospitalized for illnesses or other health problems. The existence of health problems in other members of the family or relatives will also be questioned – especially if there were heart problems or the occurrence of a sudden death before 50 years old. They will also be asked if there have ever been any previous serious injuries, such as broken bones, concussions, sprains, or any surgeries.
The form will also ask about any current allergies, and what prescriptions and supplements are currently being taken. The doctor will also want to know whether or not there has ever been any dizziness, chest pain, or ever had any breathing problems as a result of physical exertion or exercise. Drug and alcohol abuse will also be questioned.
Other Parts of the Exam
As in most physical exams, the doctor will also check reflexes, and look at the ears, throat, and nose. Height and weight will be taken, and so will blood pressure and pulse rate. Coordination will be tested, immunization history looked at, and possible blood and urine tests will be given for cholesterol, blood count, and the presence of diabetes.
Best Time to Get a Physical
A sports screening physical examination / sports cardiology test should be taken early enough so that time may be given to correct any problems. This may require the time for medicine to work and to ensure proper dosage, healing to take effect, or there may possibly be the need for further testing. Time will be important to complete all of these possible checks.
Dr. Abdul Malik, MD, is an expert cardiologist who has been practicing for over 24 years. He provides sports screening physical examination / sports cardiology. Over the years, he has taught many young doctors at various hospitals in the medical areas of Internal Medicine and Cardiology. His expertise, high-tech office, and thorough diagnostic testing has earned him the title Consumer’s Choice Award for Top Doctors.