Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Every year, nearly 6,000 people visit the emergency room for sports and recreation heat illnesses.

Federal health authorities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are urging coaches, parents, teachers and athletes to know the warning signs for dehydration and heat-related illness.

“Any athlete drying from heat is a tragedy that can be prevented,” said Dr. Robin Ikeda, deputy director for the CDC’s Noncommunicable Diseases, Injury and Environmental Health.

It’s a simple fact. People who work out in extreme heat are more likely to become dehydrated or have a heat-related illness. The most common activities that lead athletes to the hospital include: playing football, walking, jogging, running and calisthenics.

To prevent heat-related illness, the CDC recommends the following guidelines:

• If you feel light-headed or weak, stop all activity and seek a cooler place.
• Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
• Schedule practices or workouts during cooler temperatures.
• Gradually increase activity levels outside.
• Drink extra water. Drink water before you become thirsty.
• Do not workout by yourself.
• Wear clothes that are loose and lightweight. Avoid dark colors.
• Seek medical attention when anyone shows symptoms of heat-related illness.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Alice Warchol is a fitness instructor and freelance health writer.

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