Whenever you work or play outside in a hot, humid environment, you
increase your chances of suffering a heat-related illness. Traditional
classifications of heat illness are listed below, along with prevention
recommendations based on the National Athletic Training Position Statement
on exertional heat illnesses. For more information, log onto www.nata.org, then click
on Publications > Position Statements.
CRAMPS - Cramps are due to fluid deficiencies
(dehydration), thirst, electrolyte imbalances, and/or muscular fatigue.
Note that cramps can occur in hot OR cold weather.
| Indicators |
A sudden, painful, and involuntary muscle contraction
lasting a brief period of time. |
| Treatment |
Stop activity and begin mild stretching with massage of
the muscle spasm. Allowing the athlete to lie down may permit more
rapid redistribution of blood flow to cramping leg muscles. Replace
lost fluids with some type of sports drink, such as Gatorade® or any
fluid containing sodium (salt). |
HEAT EXHAUSTION - Heat exhaustion is the inability to
continue exercising, especially when playing in hot, humid conditions.
| Indicators |
Heat exhaustion may be associated with any combination
of heavy sweating, dehydration, sodium loss, and fatigue. Other signs
and symptoms include pale skin, nausea, decreased pulse rate,
headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, and/or fainting. |
| Treatment |
Remove from practice immediately to a cool and shaded
area. Remove excess clothing, pads, and/or helmet to help facilitate
evaporation and cooling. Cool the athlete with fans, ice towels, or
ice bags. Give fluids. If recovery is not rapid or is uneventful,
call 911 or your local emergency number. |
HEAT STROKE - The body’s thermal regulatory system is
overwhelmed and cannot function properly due to an elevated core
temperature of 104?F or above. The longer the body’s temperature remains
above 106?F, the greater chance for serious organ tissue damage or death.
Thus, heat stroke is life threatening and can become fatal
unless promptly recognized and treated.
| Indicators |
Rapid heart rate, heavy breathing, hot and sweating
skin (although skin may be wet or dry at time of collapse), nausea
and vomiting. Other signs include an altered mental status such as
confusion, irritability, dizziness, drowsiness, disorientation,
staggering, and/or loss of consciousness. Seizures and comma may
result. |
| Treatment |
First and foremost, activate 911 or your local
emergency number. Aggressive first aid cooling
should be initiated until emergency personnel arrive.
Immediately remove athlete from practice to a cool and shaded
area. Remove clothing, immerse in a tub of cold water (35?F to
59?F). If a cold pool of water is not available, apply ice bags to
as much of the body as possible, especially to the major vessels in
the armpit, groin, and neck. and/or helmet to help facilitate
evaporation and cooling. If ice bags are not available, repeatedly
sponge athlete down with cool water or apply cold towels and
continuously fan the body. Give fluids if conscious. Monitor the
athlete’s vital signs, maintain an open airway and await emergency
help.
|
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Reprinted with the permission of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.
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