Heat Related Illnesses

Heat illnesses range in severity form mild (heat rash, heat syncope, cramps) to serious (heat exhaustion, heat injury, heat stroke). Although heat illness can occur in anyone, an increased risk is associated with a variety of environmental factors, personal characteristics, health conditions, and medications. The risk of serious heat illness can be markedly reduced by implementing a variety of countermeasures, including becoming acclimated to the heat, managing heat stress exposure, and maintaining hydration. Athletes, coaches, training staff, and medical personnel should be vigilant for signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses. If warning signs are acted upon and body cooling rapidly administered, serious heat illness can be avoided. If heat stroke is suspected, rapid body cooling by immersion or soaking in cold water or ice water should be initiated.