Medical

MEDICAL NEEDS

Coaches,

Our goal is to ensure your athletes stay healthy, and avoid any medical issues, during the High School Erg Competition this year.

Exercise-induced heat exhaustion happens when a body can no longer get rid of the extra heat created during exercise, and the body's temperature rises to an unhealthy level.

Dehydration is one of the primary reasons for heat exhaustion during competition. Heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke. To ensure your athletes are ready for the competition, guidance should be provided to athletes, and their parents, prior to the competition.

Factors that can contribute to exercise-induced heat exhaustion

• Being dehydrated

• Being in poor physical shape

• Not used to working out in a hot environment

• Being obese

• Having an infection or a chronic illness

• Certain medical conditions, such as sickle cell disease, or conditions that decrease perspiration

• Taking certain medications such as stimulants, antihistamines, and medicines for epilepsy

• Using alcohol before exercising.

How to prevent exercise-induced heat exhaustion

• Drink Plenty of Water PRIOR TO, DURING, and AFTER the activity.

• Consume foods high in water content (such as fruits).

• Sport drinks provide sugars to fuel muscles and brain, and sodium to hold fluid in the body and help replace loss due to perspiration.

  • This is recommended if the athlete has not eaten prior to the competition.

• Have plenty of water available and remind athletes to hydrate frequently.

• Talk to athletes during breaks and assign “hydration buddies” so athletes monitor, and remind, each other to stay hydrated.

Symptoms of exercise-induced heat exhaustion

• Rapid heartbeat

• Fast breathing

• Heavy sweating

• Dizziness

• Fainting

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Headache

• Weakness

• Muscle cramps

• Mild, temporary confusion

• Low blood pressure

• Dehydration

• Problems coordinating movement

Treatment of exercise-induced

heat exhaustion

• Stopping the activity and moving your athlete to a cooler area

• Raising your athlete's legs to a level above their head

• Taking off any extra clothing and equipment

• Cool off until your temperature goes down

• Drinking water (or a sports drink if available)

Medical Team

We will be located on the baseball field side of the gym and will provide privacy for the athlete.

Basic medical supplies will be available plus ice packs, cold wet towels, water, and electrolyte drinks.

Any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Anne Anastasio RN

703 851 6113

Anne.Anastasio@gmail.com