A heat related illness occurs when the body is not able to regulate, or control, its temperature. If left untreated, a heat illness can lead to serious complications, even death. If detected and treated early, however, most serious problems can be avoided.
Normal body temperature is balanced through heat production and heat loss. As a person is exposed to high heat and humidity, the body temperature rises.
Most of the body’s methods for heat loss depend on the environmental, or outside, temperature being lower than the body’s temperature. When the outside temperature is high, the main source of heat loss is evaporation, when perspiration on the skin changes from liquid to vapor. If humidity if high, however, sweat cannot evaporate easily.
The Cleveland Clinic offers advise to prevent heat illness:
1. Proper Hydration
- Pre- and post-exercise hydration
- Drink water and electrolyte drinks
- Limit excessive caffeine consumption
2. Be Aware of Supplements
- Research has shown supplements use can raise blood pressure, speed heart rate and contribute to dehydration.
- Products containing ephedrine contribute to fatal heart rhythm difficulties, heat related illnesses, stroke, and seizures.
- Ephedrine raises the body's heat production and body temperatures and increases the risk of developing heat illnesses.
- Supplements are not regulated by the Fod and Drug Administration (FDA). As a result, nutritional labels may be inconsistent.
- Creatine may be linked to muscle cramping if working out in the heat of the day.
3. Keep Cool
- Use ice towels
- Use cold tub
- Wear light-weight, light-colored clothing
4. High Risk Athletes
Overweight & unfit athletes have a tendency to overheat.
5. Stay Healthy
- Eata well-balanced diet
- Salt food lightly, if not hypertensive
- Monitor weight before and after each practice session
- Monitor urine: Clear or light yellow for color of unrine
- Get plenty of rest
6. Notify Medical Professional if experiencing any signs of dehydration and heat illness
For more information:
Learn how to recognize heat-related illness
Cleveland Clinic's Sports Health
Disclaimer: The evaluation of any athlete, whether as a part of health evaluations prior to activity or as a diagnosis of an injury as the consequence of sports activities, is specific to that individual and the history and current state of the individual presented. Advice, diagnosis and treatment is individualized according to numerous factors, including patient health and age information, medical history and symptoms. All athletes should be cleared by a physician or other appropriate medical professional before engaging in physical activities and, after injury, diagnosis and treatment, for return to play.