Given the warm temperatures this summer, it is important for parents to know the signs of heat-related illnesses and what to look for when their athletes are exercising or playing in the sun. Dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are heat-related illnesses that may occur in growing athletes if they are not prepared to play outdoor sports in hot weather.
Some of the early signs of these heat-related illnesses to look out for include:
- Thirst
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Muscle cramps
- Loss of energy
Heat-related illnesses can be avoided if a growing athlete stays hydrated. Practice the following to stay safe when it’s hot outside:
- Pre-hydrate 30 minutes before any sports activity. Kids should drink water until they are no longer thirsty and then drink another 8 ounces.
- Make sure your child has the right amount of water to drink for his weight during his practice or game:
- 5 ounces of water for every 20 minutes of activity for kids and teens weighing less than 90 pounds
- 8 ounces of water for every 20 minutes of activity for kids and teens weighing more than 90 pounds
- Make sure your child drinks water during an activity instead of pouring it on his head or face.
“The importance of remaining hydrated is extremely important,” said Sports Medicine Primary Care Physician Dr. Ashley Brouillette.
“Making sure your child slowly progresses into an activity and doesn’t jump into a practice or game when they haven’t properly warmed up or stretched is also imperative.”
To learn more, visit choa.org/parent-resources/sports-medicine/heat-related-illness.
Insight above provided by Dr. Ashley Brouillette, Pediatric Sports Medicine Primary Care Physician at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Disclaimer: This content is general information and is not specific medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the health of a child. In case of an urgent concern or emergency, call 911.