Posted: November 25, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Concussions, Dehydration, Football, Heat Stroke, Player Safety, Youth Sports | Tags: Concussions, player safety, Safety Tag, youth football, Youth Sports |
By DR DAVID GEIER
Tyrell Cameron. Ben Hamm. Evan Murray. Kenney Bui. Rod Williams. Cam’ron Matthews. Andre Smith. Luke Schemm.
These are all young athletes who have died this season playing high school football.
Deaths in a sport can be classified as either direct or indirect fatalities. Direct fatalities are those that result from football itself, such as a player suffering a broken neck tackling an opponent. Indirect deaths result from exertion while playing. Examples include heat stroke and cardiac deaths.
From available media reports, it appears that most of the young athletes listed above died from events directly caused by football. They died from brain injuries, cervical spine injuries or a lacerated spleen.
If these reports are accurate, then at least six of the deaths this fall are directly related to high school football. Add these to the eight deaths in 2013 and five in 2014, and this three-year period marks the highest total since 1986-1988, according to Jason Lisk of The Big Lead.
Whether or not this recent spike in fatalities is part of a trend or just an aberration remains to be seen.
Dr. Frederick Mueller, the former director of the National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research, explained to me that in the 1960s and early 1970s, 25 to 30 athletes died each year as a result of head and neck injuries. In 1976, football banned spear tackling, which involved leading with the head or helmet. That change helped to dramatically cut fatalities in the sport.
According to data from the NCCSIR, 26 high school football players suffered deaths directly related to the sport between 2003 and 2012, or about three per year. Nineteen direct fatalities have occurred from 2013 through the end of the 2015 season, which appears to be a significant increase. It’s possible, however, that increased media coverage and the proliferation of social media has helped to publicize deaths we might never have heard about in the past.
While it’s hard to conclude that deaths in high school football are becoming more common, it is clear that we aren’t making much headway in preventing them either.
Part of the problem could be the evolution of the sport at the high school level and the athletes who play it. Kids start playing competitively at a much younger age, so the high school game is played at a higher level than ever. Plus the athletes are bigger, faster and stronger and deliver hits with more force than they did decades ago.
More worrisome, though, are the deaths indirectly related to football. There were 62 indirect fatalities between 2008 and 2014, according to NCCSIR data. Most deaths from heat stroke, sickling in athletes with sickle cell trait and heart issues can be prevented with rapid and appropriate medical response in the first few minutes. Yet these deaths seem to be rising.
I don’t present these statistics to scare anyone. The simple fact is that kids die playing football.
You might look at that number — six deaths directly caused by football this year — and think that it isn’t many when 1.1 million kids play high school football. Or you might be a parent who decides it is far too high.
We need more research on high school football deaths and new strategies to prevent them. Would creating more protective helmets make a difference? Would teaching proper tackling techniques help? Yes, we need those efforts and much, much more. But the last 40 years have shown us that we aren’t making much progress.
Football is more popular than ever, and kids want to play. Parents will have to decide if six deaths a year is an acceptable risk for their children.
Dr. David Geier is an orthopaedic surgeon in Charleston. For more information about football injuries and other sports medicine topics, go to drdavidgeier.com.
Source: Geier, David. “Are Deaths Increasing in High School Football?” Post and Courier. N.p., 25 Nov. 2015. Web. 25 Nov. 2015.
Posted: August 11, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Dehydration, Heat Stroke, Player Safety, Youth Sports | Tags: dehydration, player safety, Safety Tag, Youth Sports |
By AUSTIN WELLS
With the recent weeks bringing some of the hottest weather Texas has seen all year, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Rockwall reminds community members of the importance of keeping hydrated – especially those who plan on spending a lot of time outdoors.
For parents, it might often be difficult to tell if a child is suffering from dehydration or heat exhaustion, particularly if the child happens to be enjoying some swim time at the pool.
Dr. Clint Lowry – who works within the Texas Health North Rockwall Emergency Room located at2265 N. Lakeshore Dr.– said some of the major signs and symptoms of dehydration to look for include increased respiratory rate, vomiting and headache.
According to Dr. Lowry, the elderly and very young of age are at a higher risk of suffering a heat-related illness such as a heat stroke or dehydration when exposed to hot temperatures for long periods of time.
“Elderly patients – particularly if they have underlying heart disease or are on a lot of medications – may be prone to experiencing heat exhaustion and heat stroke sooner than younger, healthier patients,” Dr. Lowry said. “The same could be said for the very young, who may not physiologically adapt as well in extreme heat conditions.”
For someone who’s severely dehydrated or suffering from severe heat exhaustion and must be taken to the ER, the staff within the North ER will always first check the individual’s electrolyte levels and renal functions (the state of the kidneys), both of which Dr. Lowry said are very important when it comes to treating heat-related illnesses.
“Checking electrolytes and renal function would be the minimum workup, potentially much more depending on how the patient feels and what their adjoining medical problems are,” he said.
The most important thing an individual can do to combat the heat would be to hydrate with the proper fluids before venturing out into the sun. Liquids such as water or electrolyte-replenishing drinks such as Gatorade or PowerAde are much better choices than diuretic drinks containing caffeine and alcohol which can increase urine output, causing you to lose more fluids.
“Preventing dehydration really starts before you leave the house,” Dr. Lowry said. “Make sure you’re well hydrated before you get out in the heat.”
Source: Wells, Austin. “Beat the Heat: Know the Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration.” Blue Ribbon News. N.p., 11 Aug. 2015. Web. 11 Aug. 2015.
Posted: August 10, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Dehydration, Heat Stroke, Player Safety, Youth Sports | Tags: dehydration, Heat Stroke, player safety, Safety Tag, Youth Sports |
By ELIZABETH DINH
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – North Texas remains under a Heat Advisory on Monday, which could end up being one of the hottest days of the year. The advisory runs through 7:00 p.m. and may even be extended into Tuesday for some areas. In such extreme heat, it is important to make sure that you remain safe.
MedStar on Monday said that they are now responding to an average of five heat-related medical emergencies each day, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Children and the elderly are most likely to experience these illnesses.
SYMPTOMS
Heatstroke occurs when the body suffers long exposure to heat and becomes unable to cool down. It can be life threatening, so it is important to know the symptoms, and those of heat exhaustion. They include paleness, sweating, nausea and vomiting. A case of heat exhaustion can escalate to heatstroke within minutes.
Additional signs of heatstroke include confusion, dry skin, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, decreased urination and even convulsions. If you see someone experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
HYDRATION
“Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses large amount of water and salt through excessive sweating, particularly through hard labor or exercise,” explained Dr. Neal Richmond with MedStar.
Doctors recommend that people drink eight ounces of water every other hour in order to stay hydrated. Keep in mind, simply swimming in a pool or running through a sprinkler is not enough. Also, be sure to minimize the amount of carbonated, sugary and caffeinated drinks that you take in, because those can actually dehydrate you.
VENTILATION
Try to stay in a place where there is plenty of cool air circulating. If you are indoors and do not have access to air conditioning, open windows and use fans. The Salvation Army has also opened cooling centers across North Texas.
“If you’re going to be doing anything outdoors during the high-temperature summer months, we recommend drinking plenty of water and frequently cooling off in the shade or indoors,” said Macara Trusty with MedStar.
CLOTHING
Avoid dark colors and tight garments that trap in the heat. Also, hats are great for shielding from the sun. However, if you feel yourself getting too warm, remove the hat and any other head coverings to allow heat to escape. And don’t forget to apply (and re-apply) plenty of sunscreen.
Dallas exerciser Laurie Seale said, “If you come out here and you’re not covered, you’re going to get sunburned and you’re not going to have fun.”
EXERCISE
Most people will try to workout indoors on the hot days. But, for those who still want to exercise outside, try to do it very early in the day, before the sun rises. Be careful about doing an intense workout after a long day. If you are going to exercise later in the day, do just a light workout instead.
“I have a glass of orange juice,” stated Dr. Robert Bloom, who was exercising on the Katy Trail on Monday morning, “because the orange juice contains potassium, which is important for cramping.”
CARS
Car care is also imporant in the hot weather. According to AAA, drivers should check the air pressure of their tires. Those with low air pressure are more likely to blow out on the hot pavement. Heat is bad for your engine, too. Make sure that your cooling system has a good mix of water and coolant.
As for your car battery, heat and vibration are both enemies, and can lead to internal breakdown and failure. Open your hood and make sure that your car battery is secure. And, if it is more than three years old, have a professional test it to see how long it might last. Get more car care tips from AAA.
And, of course, do not leave children or pets unattended in hot cars. Be sure to keep car doors locked when the vehicles are not in use to prevent children from getting trapped inside.
CHECKING UP
It is important to check on neighbors and loved ones, especially the elderly who are especially vulnerable to heat illnesses and may not realize how hot it is getting. Call them, or stop by their homes, to make sure that they stay safe and are feeling okay.
Source: Dinh, Elizabeth. “Tips For Staying Safe In Hot Weather.” CBS Dallas Fort Worth. N.p., 10 Aug. 2015. Web. 10 Aug. 2015.
Posted: August 8, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Dehydration, Heat Stroke, Player Safety, Youth Sports | Tags: dehydration, Heat Stroke, Safety Tag, Youth Sports |
By THOMAS M KOSTIGEN
Dehydration. It’s one of the most serious health consequences weather can bring about, yet it’s often one of the most under-prepared for.
Scorching temperatures across the country this week and throughout this summer are reminders that we need to stay not only cool but hydrated. Many parts of the United States are in the middle of record-setting heat waves, with cities like Dallas reporting triple-digit temperatures — for days.
Dehydration happens when you use or expel more fluids than you ingest. This interrupts the body’s ability to function normally. As the Mayo Clinic notes, a common cause of dehydration includes exercise, especially in hot weather.
But it’s not just the heat that brings on the potentially deadly condition. Dehydration can occur in any type of weather if your body doesn’t get the right amount and kinds of fluids to offset its losses. Heat causes dehydration more often than cooler temperatures because your body can sweat fluids even without exertion in a short period of time.
Just a 1.5% loss of body water can result in dehydration, and sometimes water itself isn’t enough to battle it. Electrolytes are key to staying healthy and hydrated.
Electrolytes are minerals contained in your blood and other bodily fluids that affect the amount of water your body retains. Some of the more common electrolytes are calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium. When there is an imbalance of these minerals, dehydration sets in and all sorts of complications can occur: blackouts, stroke, kidney failure and muscle malfunctions. It can even lead to death.
That’s why staying hydrated may mean more than drinking plenty of water. The rule of thumb for fluid intake is to drink eight, eight-ounce glasses per day. It’s an inexact measure because it depends on weight and exertion, as well as weather conditions. (Note that all fluids count toward the total, which adds up to about two liters of water per day.)
Water doesn’t contain the electrolytes we need if we experience mineral imbalances. Sports drinks such as Gatorade can correct things because they contain many of the electrolytes your body needs.
In a pinch, you can also make your own rehydration cocktail with a half teaspoon of salt, six teaspoons of sugar and a liter of water. Blend it all together and drink it in small amounts every few minutes for several hours until you feel better. You shouldn’t drink this if you have any type of medical condition, and you should always seek medical attention first if you feel ill from the heat.
Signs of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, a swollen tongue, weakness, dizziness, an increased heart rate, confusion and fainting, among other symptoms.
Remember that acclimatization is also key to staying safe in different weather conditions. If you travel to a warmer climate than you are used to, or are at altitudes different than where you live, your body will need time to adjust. Part of that adjustment means hydrating. Emergency room doctors in Key West, Fla., — the warmest location on average in the U.S. — cite dehydration from visitors as the most common illness they treat.
You should enjoy the warmth of summer and all the activities it brings: beach-going, hiking, a nice long walk in the park. Just don’t forget to drink (water) to all that enjoyment.
Source: Kostigen, Thomas M. “Staying Hydrated Is about More than Just Drinking Water.” USA Today. Gannett, 08 Aug. 2015. Web. 08 Aug. 2015.
Posted: August 7, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Heat Stroke, Player Safety, Youth Sports | Tags: Heat Stroke, player safety, Safety Tag, Youth Sports |
By SEBASTIAN ROBERTSON
A 17-year-old Commerce, TX boy is in the ICU Friday, showing signs of heat stroke.
Mason Gonzalez’ mother and stepfather told News 8 that Mason was in stable condition. Doctors weren’t telling them he is in the clear, but do say that they are remaining positive and say their son was showing many good signs.
Gonzalez is heading into his senior year of High School at Wolf City in Commerce. During a 7 a.m. practice Thursday, his coaches could tell Gonzalez didn’t seem normal so they took him into the locker room.
When that didn’t work, the called 911.
Gonzalez was ultimately flown by helicopter to Children’s Medical Center of Dallas.
“I could tell Monday night, in his eyes that he he just didn’t look right,” Mason’s mom, Barbara, said. “I was like, ‘Mason do you feel ok?’ And he was like, ‘Yes mom I feel fine.’”
Gonzalez parent’s say that, as of Friday afternoon, their son wasn’t speaking or walking, but was responsive.
Doctors performed a barrage of tests to rule out any underlying medical condition, and so far, all signs point to extreme heat stroke.
Source: Robertson, Sebastian. “Doctors Suspect Heat Stroke for Commerce Student Athlete.” WFAA. N.p., 07 Aug. 2015. Web. 07 Aug. 2015.
Posted: August 1, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Dehydration, Football, Heat Stroke, High School, Player Safety | Tags: dehydration, Heat Stroke, high school football, player safety, Safety Tag |
By DONALD EMMONS BLADE
Sweating profusely is quite common at this time of year in Ohio.
It certainly is the case on high school football fields all across the Buckeye state when two-a-days are in full effect.
The buildup of excitement to kick off another football season comes with concern. Coaches think safety first when it comes to practicing under an August sun and high temperatures.
Football coaching staffs should be as concerned about dehydration and heat exhaustion as they are about a quarterback understanding a playbook at this stage in the season. As teams work on conditioning in preparation for — at minimum — a 10-game regular season schedule, there’s plenty of thought put into taking precautions to avoid cases of dehydration or heat exhaustion.
“The issue — water is the most critical thing, keeping hydrated and keeping them cool,” said Dr. Kris Brickman, medical director of the ER at the University of Toledo Medical Center, the former Medical College of Ohio, who also serves as St. John’s Jesuit’s team physician.
Brickman, who is in his 29th year serving as the Titans’ team physician, recommends having football teams take “water breaks” every 30 minutes to address concerns about players becoming dehydrated or overheated.
Furthermore, he believes the water breaks should involve not only players drinking water, but also being cooled off with water in a water mist.
“If you don’t have a cooling system or a way to cool them down, it would be better to get out of the sun,” Brickman said.
Perrysburg is one of many schools set to commence the first week of football practices today with two-a-day sessions.
Yellow Jackets coach Matt Kregel said their approach to addressing concerns about players becoming dehydrated is to have breaks every 40 minutes during a two-hour practice.
“We have five-minute water breaks, three per practice,” Kregel said. “And any situation they’re in, they can walk out and get water if they need water.”
Making sure enough water stations are available is one way Springfield coach Pat Gucciardo addresses concerns about players becoming dehydrated or overheated.
“We have water available at water troughs, and our training staff does a great job with keeping Gatorade at different stations,” said Gucciardo, whose Blue Devils begin to practice today.
When temperatures are 90 degrees or above, Brickman said “the general rule” he recommends to the Titans’ coaching staff is to practice no more than 30 minutes before stopping practice to allow players to drink water and get cooled off under a water cooling system such as a water mister.
Replenishing bodily fluids lost from sweating during workouts is vital to regulating the body’s temperature.
Furthermore, Brickman said bigger and heavier players — such as offensive and defensive linemen — may be more likely than smaller players such as quarterbacks and wide receivers to dehydrate.
However, he believes monitoring practices in the heat should be handled with the consideration of all the players in mind.
“The running backs and wide receivers can dissipate the heat better than that lineman,” Brickman said.
“At the end of the day, coaches have to figure out how to get their teams ready for the season.”
Wauseon coach Travis Cooper said they will make sure enough water and sports drinks that include electrolytes are made available throughout their practice sessions, which kicks off today.
“We spend a lot of time before the season discussing proper hydration, not only water but electrolytes, a combination of both,” Cooper said.
“We also keep an eye on the weather. We get hour-to-hour forecast from the trainer.”
Waite coach Dan Chipka said the Indians will not hit the practice field for two-a-day sessions until Monday.
He said the Indians are ready to get the season started, and his coaching staff is prepared to deal with weather conditions that raises concerns about players experiencing dehydration.
“I have 13 coaches on staff, and one thing I emphasize is filling up the water bottles and working the waters bottles around,” Chipka said.
The Waite coach also said he will adjust practices according to the weather conditions.
If temperatures and humidity are too high, the Indians have adjusted their practice plans, such as not working out in full pads and just in helmets, T-shirts and shorts.
Chipka will not rule anything out for the cause of his players’ safety.
“We’ll call practice if need be, if necessary,” Chipka said.
Safety comes first.
Source: Blade, Donald Emmons. “High School Football Coaches Cautious of Dehydration, Player Safety.” BCSN. N.p., 01 Aug. 2015. Web. 01 Aug. 2015.
Posted: July 30, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Heat Stroke, Player Safety | Tags: Heat Stroke, player safety, Safety Tag |
By JEMELENE WILSON
It was one of the hottest days on record in Roseburg and my husband Russ was determined to finish the landscaping of our back yard. My 40th birthday was later that month and his party plans included a grassy lawn. The sod would be delivered the next day so tilling the soil wasn’t about to wait because of the heat.
Russ spent the day in the yard in temperatures that soared in the hundreds. By the evening he was sicker than I had ever seen him. He was in bed early, barely holding down water and worrying about the sod delivery the next day. If it didn’t get rolled immediately it would be dead and useless.
What I didn’t realize at the time was the jeopardy my husbands health was in and it could have been much more than sod that we lost.
In hindsight, Russ was at the least suffering from heat exhaustion and more probably he was having heat stroke. What we mistook for a horrible flu was caused by dehydration and extreme heat.
It wasn’t until a few years later while working in the ER that a very hot day gave me chills. It was long after the fact that I realized how much danger my husband had been in and how he is even more susceptible after that first incident.
This week has been a reminder that we all need to be careful. Roseburg is having unusually hot temperatures this week.
To make matters worse, smoke from the Cable Crossing Fire east of Glide has brought us a thick layer of smoke clouding our valley.
Not only should we be caring for ourselves for heat, but looking after those who have respiratory issues as well.
It’s a good time to look after elderly relatives and neighbors. Make sure they have plenty of water and a cool place to be if possible. Children are highly susceptible as well. Their little bodies take less time to heat up so keeping cool water handy for them is a must.
Educate yourself on the symptoms and treatment for heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
According to WebMD, the most common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Confusion
- Dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration)
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or abdominal cramps
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Pale skin
- Profuse sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
Symptoms of Heatstroke
The hallmark symptom of heat stroke is a core body temperature above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, but fainting may be the first sign.
Other symptoms may include:
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Lack of sweating despite the heat
- Red, hot, and dry skin
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat, which may be either strong or weak
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
Please seek medical attention immediately for anyone experiencing the symptoms listed above.
If you suspect heatstroke, call 911 and administer first aid while you wait.
WebMD has suggestions for administering first aid for heat exhaustion as well but if you have any questions please seek advice from a medical professional. Don’t risk by making the diagnosis yourself.
As you might guess, Russ didn’t roll sod the next day. It was up to me and a hired hand. He did sit on the deck with a cool drink to supervise. I didn’t mind, I was just glad he was around to help.
Source: Wilson, Jemelene. “What You Must Know about Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke | Moms | NRToday.com.” The News-Review. N.p., 30 July 2015. Web. 30 July 2015.
Posted: July 28, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Dehydration, Heat Stroke, Player Safety | Tags: dehydration, player safety, Safety Tag |
By CASEY HOLDER
Around noon Monday at Graham High School’s Newton Field, attendees of the GHS Steers football camp huddled around three small water tanks using hoses to stay hydrated as temperatures climbed through the mid 90s.
It was hot out there, and according to National Weather Service meteorologist Matt Stalley, there is no major relief from high temperatures expected any time soon.
“It looks like we’ll continue to be in the upper 90s, near 100 degrees, every day for the foreseeable future really,” Stalley said. “We do have kind of a weak front that will nose its way in late this week around Friday. It will bring very slight chances for scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. As far as any kind of temperature relief, it looks like we’re going to stay in this really hot pattern for as long as we can see.”
With high temperatures, exposure to heat and sunlight increase chances of heat exhaustion, Young County Family Clinic Director and nurse practitioner Joe Clark said. Individuals with preexisting, chronic health conditions, those taking heart medication or diuretics, the obese, young children and the very old will be more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Early signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, light headedness and a lack of sweat. Individuals experiencing such symptoms need to get out of the heat, sit down, find a fan and begin ingesting a regiment of water mixed with small amounts of table salt.
“They can mix a teaspoon of salt into a quart of water and drink a cup every 15 minutes,” Clark said. “That will help balance their electrolytes and replace some of the sodium. When you sweat you lose a lot of sodium.”
Reduced sugar Gatorade will serve the same purpose, Clark said.
Medical treatment should be sought in cases of severe heat exhaustion during which individuals become confused, less responsive, have seizures or lose consciousness, Clark said. While waiting for medical attention, cool cloths on the neck, under armpits and in the groin can begin cooling an overheated individual’s blood and bring their core temperature down.
Source: Holder, Casey. “Oppressive Heat Is Here to Stay, Hydration Is Key.” - Graham Leader. N.p., 28 July 2015. Web. 28 July 2015.
Posted: July 27, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Heat Stroke, Player Safety | Tags: Heat Stroke, player safety, Safety Tag |
By ELA SOROKA
As we’ve already heard, it’s going to be a scorcher out there the next few days! And with the heat, comes risk for heat related injuries. Dr. Justin Puckett with Complete Family Medicine stopped by the set of Good Morning Heartland to tell us what we need to watch out for, and what we can do to prevent heat stroke or exhaustion.
Question: What is the difference between Heat Stroke and Exhaustion?
Answer: Heat Exhaustion has been experienced by many of us. It’s that time, when we’ve been outside, and we got a little more than just hot. With heat exhaustion, we feel warm, and are sweating profusely. We may start to develop a headache, get dizzy, and feel fatigue. These are warning signs, which we are getting too hot. When recognized early, there are no systemic or lasting damages from heat exhaustion.
Heat Stroke is the most serious form of heat injury and is considered a medical emergency. If you suspect that someone has heat stroke — also known as sunstroke — call 911 immediately and give first aid until paramedics arrive.
Heat stroke can kill or cause damage to the brain and other internal organs. Heat stroke often occurs as a progression from milder heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat syncope (fainting), and heat exhaustion. But it can strike even if you have no previous signs of heat injury.
Heat stroke results from prolonged exposure to high temperatures — usually in combination with dehydration — which leads to failure of the body’s temperature control system. Question: How might we recognize Heat Stroke from Heat Exhaustion?
Answer: The medical definition of heat stroke is a core body temperature greater than 105 degrees Fahrenheit, with complications involving the central nervous system that occur after exposure to high temperatures. Other common symptoms include nausea, seizures, confusion, disorientation, and sometimes loss of consciousness or coma.
Other symptoms may include:
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Lack of sweating despite the heat
- Red, hot, and dry skin
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat, which may be either strong or weak
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
Question: What should we do, besides call 911 of course, if we encounter someone with heat stroke?
Answer: If you suspect that someone has a heat stroke, immediately call 911 or transport the person to a hospital. Any delay seeking medical help can be fatal.
While waiting for the paramedics to arrive, initiate first aid. Move the person to an air-conditioned environment — or at least a cool, shady area — and remove any unnecessary clothing.
If possible, take the person’s core body temperature and initiate first aid to cool it to 101 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. (If no thermometers are available, don’t hesitate to initiate first aid.)
Try these cooling strategies:
- Fan air over the patient while wetting his or her skin with water from a sponge or garden hose.
- Apply ice packs to the patient’s armpits, groin, neck, and back. Because these areas are rich with blood vessels close to the skin, cooling them may reduce body temperature.
- Immerse the patient in a shower or tub of cool water, or an ice bath.
Question: Who is at highest risk of developing heat stroke?Answer: Heat stroke is most likely to affect older people who live in apartments or homes lacking air conditioning or good airflow. Other high-risk groups include people of any age who don’t drink enough water, have chronic diseases, or who drink excessive amounts of alcohol.
Heat stroke is strongly related to the heat index, which is a measurement of how hot you feel when the effects of relative humidity and air temperature are combined. A relative humidity of 60% or more hampers sweat evaporation, which hinders your body’s ability to cool itself. The exposure to full sun can increase the heat index by 15 degrees or more!
Other risk factors associated with heat-related illness include:
Age. Infants and children up to age 4, and adults over age 65, are particularly vulnerable because they adjust to heat more slowly than other people.
Health conditions. These include heart, lung, or kidney disease, obesity or underweight, high blood pressure, diabetes, mental illness, sickle celltrait, alcoholism, sunburn, and any conditions that cause fever.
Medications. These include antihistamines, diet pills, diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, stimulants, seizure medications (anticonvulsants), heart and blood pressure medications such as beta-blockers and vasoconstrictors, and medications for psychiatric illnesses such as antidepressants and antipsychotics. Illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine also are associated with increased risk of heat stroke.
People with diabetes — who are at increased risk of emergency room visits, hospitalization, and death from heat-related illness — may be especially likely to underestimate their risk during heat waves, according to a recent study presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting by researchers from the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, and the National Weather Service.Question: What can we do to prevent heat stroke?
Answer: When the heat index is high, it’s best to stay in an air-conditioned environment. If you must go outdoors, you can prevent heat stroke by taking these steps:
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more.
- Drink extra fluids. To prevent dehydration, it’s generally recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water, fruit juice, or vegetable juice per day.
- Take additional precautions when exercising or working outdoors. The general recommendation is to drink 24 ounces of fluid two hours before exercise, and consider adding another 8 ounces of water or sports drink right before exercise. During exercise, you should consume another 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Reschedule or cancel outdoor activity. If possible, shift your time outdoors to the coolest times of the day, either early morning or after sunset.
- Monitoring the color of your urine. Darker urine is a sign of dehydration. Be sure to drink enough fluids to maintain very light-colored urine. No urine production is an even more ominous sign.
- Measuring your weight before and after physical activity. Monitoring lost water weight can help you determine how much fluid you need to drink.
Check with your doctor before increasing liquid intake if you have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention.
If you live in an apartment or house without fans or air conditioning, try to spend at least two hours each day — preferably during the hottest part of the day — in an air-conditioned environment. At home, draw your curtains, shades, or blinds during the hottest part of the day, and open windows at night on two sides of your building to create cross-ventilation.Question: What about after we’ve had a heat stroke, are we more at risk of it reoccurring?
Answer: After you’ve recovered from heat stroke, you’ll probably be more sensitive to high temperatures during the following week. So it’s best to avoid hot weather and heavy exercise until your doctor tells you that it’s safe to resume your normal activities.
Source: Soroka, Ela. “Heat Stroke: Symptoms and Treatment.” Heartland Connection. N.p., 27 July 2015. Web. 27 July 2015.
Posted: July 20, 2015 | Author: admin | Filed under: Dehydration, Heat Stroke, Player Safety | Tags: dehydration, Heat Stroke, player safety, Safety Tag |
Whether you’re running, playing a pickup game of basketball or going for a power walk, take care when the temperatures rise. If you exercise outdoors in hot weather, use these common-sense precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
How heat affects your body
Exercising in hot weather puts extra stress on your body. If you don’t take care when exercising in the heat, you risk serious illness. Both the exercise itself and the air temperature increase your core body temperature.
To help cool itself, your body sends more blood to circulate through your skin. This leaves less blood for your muscles, which in turn increases your heart rate. If the humidity also is high, your body faces added stress because sweat doesn’t readily evaporate from your skin. That pushes your body temperature even higher.
Heat-related illness
Under normal conditions, your skin, blood vessels and perspiration level adjust to the heat. But these natural cooling systems may fail if you’re exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long, you sweat heavily, and you don’t drink enough fluids.
The result may be a heat-related illness. Heat-related illnesses occur along a spectrum, starting out mild but worsening if left untreated. Heat illnesses include:
- Heat cramps. Heat cramps are painful muscle contractions. Affected muscles may feel firm to the touch. Your body temperature may be normal.
- Heat syncope and exercise-associated collapse. Heat syncope is a feeling of lightheadedness or fainting caused by high temperatures, often occurring after standing for a long period of time, or standing quickly after sitting for a long period of time. Exercise-associated collapse is feeling lightheaded or fainting immediately after exercising, such as after a race.
- Heat exhaustion. With heat exhaustion, your body temperature rises as high as 104 F (40 C), and you may experience signs and symptoms including nausea, vomiting, headache, weakness, and cold, clammy skin. If left untreated, this can lead to heatstroke.
- Heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency condition that occurs when your body temperature is greater than 104 F (40 C). Your skin may be hot, but your body may stop sweating to help cool itself. If your heatstroke occurs during exercise in hot, humid weather, you may continue to sweat for a short time after exercising.
You may develop signs and symptoms including confusion, irritability, heart rhythm problems, dizziness, nausea, visual problems and fatigue. You need immediate medical attention to prevent brain damage, organ failure or even death.
Pay attention to warning signs
During hot-weather exercise, watch for signs and symptoms of heat-related illness. If you ignore these symptoms, your condition can worsen, resulting in a medical emergency. Signs and symptoms include:
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Sweating extensively
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Low blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Visual problems
If you develop any of these symptoms, you must lower your body temperature and get hydrated. Stop exercising immediately and get out of the heat. If possible, have someone stay with you who can help monitor your condition.
Remove extra clothing or sports equipment. If possible, fan your body or wet down your body with cool water. You may place cool, wet towels or ice packs on your neck, forehead and under your arms, spray yourself with water from a hose or shower, or sit in a tub filled with cold water. Drink fluids — water or a sports drink.
If you don’t feel better within 30 minutes, contact your doctor. If you have signs of heatstroke, seek immediate medical help.
Once you’ve had heatstroke, you’re at a higher risk of getting a heat illness again. Get cleared by your doctor before you return to exercise if you’ve had heatstroke.
How to avoid heat-related illnesses
When you exercise in hot weather, keep these precautions in mind:
- Watch the temperature. Pay attention to weather forecasts and heat alerts. Know what the temperature is expected to be for the duration of your planned outdoor activity.
- Get acclimated. If you’re used to exercising indoors or in cooler weather, take it easy at first when you exercise in the heat. As your body adapts to the heat over the course of one to two weeks, gradually increase the length and intensity of your workouts.
- Know your fitness level. If you’re unfit or new to exercise, be extra cautious when working out in the heat. Your body may have a lower tolerance to the heat. Reduce your exercise intensity and take frequent breaks.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration is a key factor in heat illness. Help your body sweat and cool down by staying well-hydrated with water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink fluids.
If you plan to exercise intensely, consider a sports drink instead of water. Sports drinks can replace the sodium, chloride and potassium you lose through sweating. Avoid alcoholic drinks because they can actually promote fluid loss.
- Dress appropriately. Lightweight, loosefitting clothing helps sweat evaporate and keeps you cooler. Avoid dark colors, which can absorb heat. If possible, wear a light-colored, wide-brimmed hat.
- Avoid midday sun. Exercise in the morning or evening, when it’s likely to be cooler outdoors. If possible, exercise in shady areas — or do a water workout in a pool.
- Wear sunscreen. A sunburn decreases your body’s ability to cool itself and increases the risk of skin cancer.
- Have a backup plan. If you’re concerned about the heat or humidity, stay indoors. Work out at the gym, walk laps inside the mall or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building.
- Understand your medical risks. Certain medical conditions or medications can increase your risk of a heat-related illness. If you plan to exercise in the heat, talk to your doctor about precautions.
Heat-related illnesses are largely preventable. By taking some basic precautions, your exercise routine doesn’t have to be sidelined when the heat is on.
Source: “Heat and Exercise: Keeping Cool in Hot Weather.” WPTZ. N.p., 20 July 2015. Web. 20 July 2015.
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