Three Heat-Related Illnesses Soccer Players (& Parents) Should Know About
Normally, the human body cools itself by sweating. Heat-related illnesses occur if the body can't stay cool. On hot, humid days, sweat evaporates more slowly due to the moisture in the air. When the body can't stay cool, its temperature rises, and the result can be heat-related illnesses.
The likelihood of heat-related illnesses can be determined by checking the heat index, a measure of how hot it feels outside in the shade. This isn't simply the outside temperature. The heat index combines the air temperature with the relative humidity to measure how hot it feels. Remember, this is a measure of how hot it feels in the shade. The heat index is even higher if you're in full sun, as is normally the case when playing soccer. A heat index of 90°F or higher is considered dangerous.
Heat-related illnesses take three forms:
1. Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are muscle contractions, often strong and painful, in the hamstring muscles or back of the calves.
Symptoms of Heat Cramps
Muscle spasms
Knotting muscles and muscle pain
Excessive sweat loss
Excessive saltiness of sweat over the skin or visible dried salt on the skin
Excessive dehydration
2. Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is caused by excessive heat and dehydration combined with exhaustion. The chances of heat exhaustion increase with increased dehydration.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Paleness
Heavy sweating
Feeling weak or confused
Dizziness
Nausea, vomiting
Headache
Rapid Heartbeat
Fainting
Dark-colored urine (symptom of dehydration)
Moderate increase in body temperature (101-102°F) The elevated body temperature isn't a fever created by the body, but instead is caused by the heat.
3. Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a serious condition. Critical organs can be damaged if they are overheated for an extended period and death can occur. Heat stroke can occur in the folks watching along the sidelines as well as players on the soccer field if the temperature is high enough.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Very high core body temperature (106°F or higher)
Confusion, Lethargy
Passing out during intense exercise in the heat.
Collapse
Seizures
Skin feels hot and dry. (It will not be sweaty in non-exercising indviduals, but athletes may still be sweaty.)
Vomiting frequently
Shortness of breath of trouble breathing.
(Seek Immediate Medical Attention if Player Exhibits these Warning Signs)
Tips for preventing and treating heat related illness are available at Prevention and Treatment of Heat-Related Illnesses.
Published by L. Nolan
Freelance writer View profile
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