Summer is here and with it comes hot and humid days. For athletes and families, it’s important to know about heat illness, heat stroke and symptoms that can range from mild cramping to life-threatening. What should you do when your body gets too hot and can’t cool down? Do you know the difference between heat illness and heat stroke?
Heat illness begins when your body cannot control its temperature. It often occurs during hot and very humid conditions. It may start with painful muscle cramps and tiredness, which occurs when the body loses water and important minerals through sweat. Heat cramps often affect the legs or stomach and can be relieved with adequate rest and drinking water or a sports drink containing electrolytes.
Heat exhaustion is another aspect of heat illness. Symptoms include heavy sweating, feeling weak, dizzy or sick; and cool, clammy skin. If someone shows these signs, stop activity right away, move to the shade and give cool water to drink.
“Heat stroke is the most serious, and it is a medical emergency” said Dr. Benjamin England, sports medicine physician at Prisma Health Medical Park-Alcoa (formerly East Tennessee Medical Group). Heat stroke occurs when body temperature goes above 104°F and someone becomes confused, disoriented, begins to have seizures or becomes unconscious. “The most effective treatment is ice water immersion performed as soon as possible. The sports medicine staff of our local schools have emergency action plans for this rare but possible event. Athletes and parents need to know that heat stroke can be treated successfully if recognized correctly. Cooling the athlete quickly can be the difference between life and death,” England explained.
Good prevention habits can help. Drinking plenty of water before, during and after activities keeps the body well-hydrated. It also helps to get used to the heat slowly. Spend a little extra time outside each day over a couple of weeks until your body adjusts. Avoid heavy exercise during the hottest hours of the day. Wear light, loose clothing in bright colors. Dark colors attract the heat, and tight clothing will hold the heat in.
When an athlete develops severe cramping, sudden fatigue or strange behavior, stop immediately and get help. After showing signs of heat illness, the athlete should not return to the game that day. “Heat safety is mostly about being prepared and acting early. Quick recognition can save a life,” England reminded. “Also, after an athlete has recovered from heat stroke, the player is closely monitored by sports medicine staff to return safely,” he said.
As summer fun winds down, whether it’s team practice or family time outdoors, please keep these simple steps in mind. Drink water, take breaks in the shade and watch closely for signs of trouble. Heat illnesses can be managed, but heat stroke can be life-threatening. Staying aware, staying hydrated and watching for the signs of heat illness and heat stroke can keep everyone safe.
If you suspect heat illness, our CareToday clinic at 266 Joule Street in Alcoa can evaluate whether medical attention is necessary. To make an appointment with a health care provider at Prisma Health Medical Park-Alcoa, call 865-984-3864.
