It was a terrifying sight for many to see Dallas Star’ Rich Peverley collapse on the bench during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. It serves as a warning for those who play hockey on the possible health risks due to the physical demands of the sport.
Potential dangers
The players and coaches on the Stars and Blue Jackets were rattled by the incident to Peverley that the game was postponed with Columbus leading 1-10 in the first period.
The 31-year old Peverley was transported to a Dallas hospital and in good condition after. He was lucky to be alive.
According to the Associated Press, Peverley had a procedure 6 months ago to fix an erratic heartbeat after a training camp physical exam revealed the condition. He also missed a game a week before he collapsed due to a recurrence of the issue.
According to Dr. Gil Salazar of UT Southwestern Hospitals, Peverley was treated at the arena for cardiac arrest. He was given oxygen and an IV was started. Chest compression and defibrillation was carried out to restore the rhythm to the heart and it was successful with one attempt. As soon as treatment was started, he regained consciousness.
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LEARN MORE
Learn how to help by enrolling in a CPR and AED course and for more information, check out these sources:
WebMD: CPR Guide for Heart Disease Patients