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WHAT IS IT?
The Female Athlete Triad is a combination of three inter-related illnesses that can spell disaster for an over enthusiastic female athlete.
These three illnesses include Disordered Eating, Amenorrhea, and Osteoporosis. For more information regarding the specifics of each of these illnesses and how they relate to each other, please refer to the accompanying article, The Female Athlete Triad, in Coaches' Corner on www.skylinehospital.com/pt
WHO IS AT RISK?
Almost any female athlete can be at risk for development of the Female Athlete Triad. Participants in certain sports that emphasize appearance or
leanness for "better" performance such as gymnastics, figure skating, ballet, distance running or platform diving; have a greater disposition for development of these problems. Other factors that
predispose a female athlete to development of this syndrome include low self-esteem, attitude of perfectionism, pressure to loose weight especially from coaching staff, social isolation resulting from participation
in sport, and a belief to "win at all costs".
WHAT CAN BE DONE TO HELP?
Recognition of a female athlete developing symptoms of this syndrome is the first step in helping.
Symptoms are often subtle and since some of the early warning signs are actually admired in the female athlete; they often are overlooked.
Common Physical Signs and Symptoms of the Triad
- Unexplained multiple or recurrent stress fractures
- Achieving or maintaining low body weight and lean physique
- Dry hair
- Low body temperature
- Lanugo
- Fatigue
Screening Questions to Ask
- How much of an issue is weight for you?
- What's the most you have weighed in the last year? What's the least? What do you think is your ideal weight?
- Do you currently have regular menstrual periods, and have you always?
- Have you ever used laxatives or diet pills or made yourself vomit in the past?
- Are you satisfied with your present weight?
If you suspect a problem in a female athlete, refer that athlete to a medical professional for further evaluation and care. Coaches,
parents, athletes and medical professionals must work together to achieve the same important goals - to ensure healthy and safe participation in sports now and to protect the health of these female
athletes throughout their lives.
This information is not meant to take the place of medical consultation. If you suspect a female athlete is developing
symptoms of the Triad, you should encourage that athlete to seek medical advice. If there are questions or problems, contact your doctor or health professional at Skyline Hospital (509)493-1101
from White Salmon/Bingen, (541)386-5348 from Hood River, or (509)427-4083 from Stevenson.
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