With temps now consistently in the 80’s and 90’s, the heat index can reach dangerous levels. Heat related illnesses are a real concern under such conditions, and a couple of incidents have already occurred; fortunately, none has been serious. Here are some things to know about heat-related illness:
Heat-related illness is a continuum, starting with heat cramps and progressing to heat stroke. Some characteristics of each are:
1. Heat Cramps
Painful, involuntary contractions of muscles in those who have been sweating and not replacing electrolytes which usually involve the calves, thighs, and shoulders. Heat cramps occur more commonly after activity (i.e. while sitting on the bench between innings) than during it.
2. Heat Exhaustion
Results from exposure to high temperature and dehydration. Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion include weakness, malaise, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches (heat cramps), sweating, flushed skin, high heart rate, rapid breathing.
3. Heat Stroke
This represents a progression from Heat Exhaustion. Symptoms include those seen in Heat Exhaustion plus confusion (or even unconsciousness or seizures); may have lack of sweating. Body temperature is > 104.
Prevention of these illnesses is key. Children should hydrate for a several hours prior to, and continuously during outdoor activity. I recommend drinking water during activity and sport drinks prior to and after activity. Avoid caffeinated beverages, as caffeine is a stimulant and these drinks can actually make the player more vulnerable to suffering from heat related illness. Cooling measures such as staying in a shaded area when possible, limiting activity when not actually participating (i.e. sitting calmly and quietly between innings), and placing cool, wet towels over players heads or on the back of the neck all will help to prevent heat related illness. Players should remove their hats when on the bench, assuming the hat is not needed for shade; this will allow some heat to dissipate. Catchers are particularly susceptible to heat related illness, and therefore they should be monitored closely throughout the game; alternating catchers is recommended. Placing a cool, wet washcloth on the back of the catcher’s neck WHILE he or she is catching can be helpful.
At the first sign of heat related illness, treatment should begin. Usually this can be done right there at the field and should include removing the player from the game, moving him or her to a shaded area, placing cool, wet towels on the head and neck, and vigorously hydrating with water and sports drinks. If a player has to be removed during play (as opposed to simply sitting out an inning), coaches should consider not allowing the player to return to the game (the player’s parent should be involved in this decision as well). Of course, if a player’s symptoms are progressing despite treatment, or if there is any sign of Heat Stroke, EMS should be activated immediately.
Finally, remember that the players aren’t the only ones who are susceptible to heat related illness. Coaches, cheering family members and other fans, and siblings playing around the field during the game can all become victims. As a coach, you may be called upon to “triage” one of these other important members of the BBSC community.
Good luck in your remaining games and remember SAFETY FIRST!
Mike Remoll, MD
Safety and Insurance Coordinator
BBSC
