Photo Credit: Houston MethodistHealth
Houston Methodist shares heat-safety playbook for student athletes
Amid the extreme Texas heat, a Houston Methodist physician said awareness of heat safety tips including hydration and early intervention are essential to protect high school football players from heat-related illness.
Dr. Leonardo Taarea, a sports medicine physician with Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital, has the following recommendations for staying safe and preventing illness as temperatures continue to rise.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate — “This doesn’t just mean during the practice — hydration throughout the day is key,” Taarea said. “Water, electrolytes or sports drinks are preferable since you will lose a lot of salt while sweating. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages when trying to stay hydrated.” He said drinking 6 to 10 ounces of water every 15 minutes during practice and 16 to 24 ounces of water or a sports drink before and after practice is important.
• Acclimatize — “Gradually increase exercise and outdoor activity to allow your body to adapt to the heat better,” Taarea said. “This helps the body adapt by maintaining a lower body temperature and storing more water.” He said taking breaks during this acclimatization period will also help the body adjust.
• Check on teammates — Taarea said many times teammates will notice symptoms of heat-related illness before coaches. “Look out for symptoms like cramping, dizziness or lightheadedness, heavy sweating, clammy skin, nausea and vomiting and of course fainting,” he said, and noted that anyone with these symptoms should seek shade and drink plenty of water.
“Heat safety starts before practice even begins,” Taarea said. “Staying hydrated throughout the day, allowing your body time to adjust to the heat and watching for warning signs of heat illness are all essential for athletes training outdoors.”
Taarea said student athletes should check in on their teammates and notify a coach immediately if someone appears unwell. He said a simple reminder or quick action can make a big difference inkeeping everyone safe during the hottest months of the year.
Source: Houston Methodist
