Athletes at risk: Knowing the dangers of heat stroke

For many young athletes, fall sports practices have already started. Whether it’s football two-a-days, soccer practices on a sweltering turf field, or cross country training in the late summer sun, the threat of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is prevalent across all sports. It’s an important time for athletes and parents to be aware of the signs of heat illnesses, especially given that children and adolescents are more susceptible to heat stroke than adults. Younger athletes produce more heat during activity, sweat less, and adjust less rapidly to changes in environmental heat. Certain sports also carry unique risks for heat stroke. The heavy equipment football players wear puts them at greater risk, as does the limited access to adequate hydration many long distance runners experience. Dr. Michael Beasley, a Sports Medicine specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital, provides insight on how to recognize the signs of exertional heat stroke (EHS) and the best way to administer potentially life-saving treatment. Recognizing heat stroke Beasley describes heat stroke as “the end of the spectrum of heat illness, which can include heat edema, heat rash, heat cramps, and heat syncope (fainting) all before true heat stroke occurs.” True heat stroke occurs once the core body temperature becomes higher than 106°F. Leading up to heat stroke, an athlete may begin to have abdominal and muscular cramps, as well as nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. ...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Ask the Expert Division of Sports Medicine Dr. Michael Beasley football heat exposure Source Type: news