Charles Shackleford was a basketball star who played for North Carolina State and six seasons in the NBA. He was known for his rebounding skills and his physical presence on the court. He was also involved in some controversies and legal issues, such as allegations of point shaving and drug use. He died on January 27, 2017, at the age of 50, in his home in Kinston, North Carolina. The cause of his death was an enlarged heart, according to an autopsy report.
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What is an Enlarged Heart?
An enlarged heart, or cardiomegaly, is a condition where the heart becomes bigger than normal due to various factors, such as high blood pressure, heart valve problems, heart failure, or infections. An enlarged heart can affect the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently and can lead to serious complications, such as arrhythmias, blood clots, or sudden cardiac death.
According to the autopsy report, Shackleford suffered from an enlarged heart and left ventricular hypertrophy, which is the most common type of hypertrophic heart disease. This means that the muscle wall of the left ventricle, the main pumping chamber of the heart, becomes thicker and stiffer, reducing the blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart. This can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or fainting.
How Did Shackleford Die from an Enlarged Heart?
The autopsy report states that Shackleford was found dead in his bathroom after an apparent sudden collapse. He had no drugs in his system or signs of foul play. The report concludes that he died of natural causes due to his heart condition.
According to the Mayo Clinic, an enlarged heart can increase the risk of sudden cardiac death, which is the unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. Sudden cardiac death can occur without warning or after symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, or dizziness. It can be triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, or a heart attack.
How Common is an Enlarged Heart?
An enlarged heart is a relatively common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be diagnosed by a physical exam, an electrocardiogram, a chest X-ray, an echocardiogram, or other tests. The treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Some possible treatments include medications, surgery, implantable devices, or lifestyle changes.
An enlarged heart can be prevented or managed by controlling the risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, or excessive alcohol consumption. It is also important to follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly, reduce stress, and get enough sleep.
What is the Legacy of Charles Shackleford?
Charles Shackleford was a talented basketball player who had a promising career in the NBA and overseas. He was a first-team All-ACC selection in 1988 and a second-round draft pick by the New Jersey Nets. He played for four NBA teams and several European clubs, averaging 5.4 points and 4.8 rebounds per game in his NBA career.
He was also a controversial figure who faced several accusations and legal troubles, such as point shaving, drug possession, assault, and theft. He denied any wrongdoing and maintained his innocence. He was sometimes remembered for his humorous quote, “I can shoot with my left hand, I can shoot with my right hand, I’m amphibious.”
He was mourned by his friends, family, and former teammates, who remembered him as a funny, generous, and kind person. He was also honored by his alma mater, N.C. State, who expressed their sadness and condolences in a statement.
Charles Shackleford was a basketball star who died from an enlarged heart. His cause of death was a tragic reminder of the dangers of this condition and the importance of taking care of one’s health. His life was a mixture of success and struggle, of fame and controversy, of joy and sorrow. He left behind a legacy that will not be forgotten by those who knew him and loved him.
