First Aid for Sports Injuries
APP Alphabetical Index
HEAT STRESS
Causes:Elevated body temperature generally from exertion in a hot, humid weather and/or from wearing clothes that trap body heat (even in cold weather).
Signs and symptoms: Hot, dry skin, nausea, vomiting, headaches, fainting, dizziness, and sometimes seizures, unconsciousness, and death.
Prevention:
Acclimate gradually to hot, humid weather: no overexertion; drink fluids before and during activity; wear light clothing if possible.
Three stages of severity (see below): Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Heat Cramps
Signs: Intermittent, involuntary cramping/spasms of large muscles from exercising in hot weather.
Immediate atttention
1. Stop activity./p>
2. Replace water and minerals by drinking water, replacement fluids, or dilute 100% fruit juice.
3. Massage and stretch cramping muscles. Applying cold packs may also help.
4. Rest and cool body to normal before returning to activity.
Heat Exhaustion
Signs: cool, moist skin; headache, faint, or dizzy; heavy sweating, feeling tired and weak; fast heart rate; muscle cramps; nausea
Immediate Attention1. Stop activity.
2. Recline and elevate the legs 12-18 inches.
3. Replace water and minerals by drinking water, replacement fluids, or dilute 100% fruit juice.
4. Cool with wet cloths and moving to a cool room.
5. Rest several days before resuming activity.
Consult a physician immediately.
Heat Stroke
Signs (not all may be evident): Body temperature >104 F (40 C); flushed skin; rapid, shallow breathing; racing heart rate; headache; muscle cramps or weakness; seizures; unconsciousness.
Immediate Attention:1. ASAP! (within 30 minutes), immerse in cold water to reduce body temperature below 102 degrees F. Otherwise, pour water over the body; apply ice packs to chest, abdomen, forehead, neck, and legs. If immersion tub is unavailable do not send the victim to a hospital until core temperature is lowered.
2. If conscious, give water, replacement fluids, or dilute 100% fruit juice.
