We know our summers are hot and humid, and while we usually stay in the air conditioning when possible and avoid or limit strenuous outdoor activity, we voluntarily play baseball at least once per week!   Some are smart enough to liberally apply sunscreen before and during our games, and we all bring lots of water or sports drinks. 

Of course we play some games in the mornings or in the evening when it’s cooler. However, we cannot assume that we or other players are somehow protected or exempt from heat-related illness.
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So, what is heat-related illness, do we take it seriously, what precautions are advised, and can it be treated?

​​Heat Cramps are muscle pains or spasms and can occur anytimeduring any activity.  These cramps, however, can be accentuated with a combination of excessive activity plus heat.  Heat cramps can come on duringactivity or hours later, often if we aren’t hydrated sufficiently.  If you have suffered from heat cramps, you know how painful they are and how helpless we feel.  ‘Rubbing some dirt on it’ isn’t the answer either.

Heat Exhaustion is a heat-related illness that can precede Heatstroke.  Symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid breathing, nausea, fatigue and weakness, confusion, fainting, and a fast, weak pulse; and is often accompanied by dehydration.  And if you already have some respiratory issues, exhaustion sets in a lot quicker.

It is important to recognize heat exhaustion symptoms early, stop our activity, sit or lie down in a cool or cooler place, drink more fluids.

 
Heatstroke– a SERIOUS life-threatening illness in which body temperature may rise above 106° in minutes - includes all of the symptoms of Heat Cramps and Heat Exhaustion, but may result in convulsions, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and even decreased sweating.  Heatstroke can occur suddenly without any signs of cramps or exhaustion and requires immediate medical attention.  

When we will be playing in the heat and under extremely humid conditions, how do we prepare? 

1. Drink plenty non-caffeinated fluids BEFORE, DURING, and AFTERactivity

2. Stay in the shade when not on the field

3. Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing

4. Apply other cooling measures such as a cool wet towel around the neck

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If you or anyone else has symptoms of heat exhaustion, it's crucial to immediately get out of the heat, sit or lie down, and rest - preferably in an air-conditioned place: a car or nearby building.

If such measures fail to provide relief within 15 minutes, get some medical help, because untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
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After one has recovered from heat exhaustion or heatstroke, they will be more sensitive to high temperatures during the following week or so.  It is best to avoid hot weather, strenuous activity, or exercise until your doctor tells you that it's safe to resume your normal activities.
 
Most of the time, many of us exercise common sense and good judgment, but we also get caught up in competition and don’t always pay attention to the signals we get from our brains and bodies.  We need to watch and protect ourselves as well as pay attention and help our team mates, umpires, and even spectators.   Heat-related illness is very serious. 
 
So, let’s enjoy our games this summer in the heat and humidity, and have fun; but let’s be smart and safe by taking precautions, being observant, and knowing when it’s time to say, ‘uncle.’