Heat Illnesses
There are three stages of heat illness which are heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Sporting events are one of the most common places to witness heat related illness. If not treated properly a heat illness can be life threatening.
Have you ever seen an athlete being treated for cramps? Heat cramps are one of the first stages of heat illnesses. It is caused by the loss of water and salt through exercise. Cramping usually starts in the calves, arms, and abdomen which can turn serious if not properly stretched and hydrated.
Heat exhaustion is a condition that is caused by losing large amounts of water and salt by sweating. One's heart rate will rise rapidly and sever fatigue sets in. This condition is caused by high temperatures, humidity, and strenuous activity. If not attended to immediately heat exhaustion can turn into heat stroke.
Heat stroke is when the body to overheats. This condition is usually caused by prolonged exposure to physical activity in high temperatures. Heat stroke is most serious form of heat injury. Heat stroke can occur when the body's temperature rises to 104 F or higher. If not treated as soon as possible the condition can quickly cause damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. If treatment is delayed it will increase the risk of serious complications or death.
To prevent a heat related illness a person should drink 4 to 8 cups of water day. During exercise or other physical activity it is best hydrate the night before to ensure that no signs of heat illness or dehydration set in. It is everyone’s responsibility to watch each other for signs of dehydration and heat related injuries. As a coach, trainer, teacher or athlete, you should be aware and responsible for making others understand the necessity about following a simple regimen such as hydrating, cooling down, and resting. Also before practice or work it might benefit everyone by giving a small safety briefing on the dangers of heat related illnesses.
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Pacific Northwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center. (n.d.). Retrieved February 3, 2017, from
University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Heat illness
prevention. Retrieved February 3, 2017, from http://ucanr.edu/News/Heat/
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