It's the beginning of sports - stay hydrated and be aware!

School has started back and our young athletes are playing football, started band, and drill team is outside too. It's so important for parents, friends, coaches and teachers to be aware of an AED or SCA program at their local schools or recreation centers. As parent's - we need to ask where the AED is located, who can administer it and how fast can help arrive in case they need to.

SCA (Sudden Cardiac Arrest) is five times more common in teen athletes with only 1 in 10 surviving. In hot weather it is crucial to be aware of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Dehydration can be risky for anyone out in extreme heat who is also exercising. It will interfere with the heart's main pumping area, the left ventricle. Not having enough fluids can make blood flow problems worse which may lead to fainting or shortness of breath.

There are some things that we can do to prevent any of these fatal SCA episodes from happening. Encouraging heart screenings in your children and teens is proven to prevent 90% of SCA. Being aware of the signals is also important. Be on the look out for fainting or seizures after physical activity, any episodes of chest pain, racing heartbeats or unusual shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness during or after exercise, or a family history of heart disease. Sometimes there is no family history at all.

Stay on top of your kids - ask how they are feeling. Push the coaches, teachers and parents present to always be fully aware of keeping the kids hydrated and well rested before pushing them too far.

Living for Zachary wishes all the young athletes good luck this season - whatever your sport is!