Heat related injuries or illnesses may occur whenever an individual is active during high heat or humidity.  This is especially true during summer football practices when an emphasis is placed on "conditioning" and Coaches are aggressively encouraging players to challenge their physical limitations.  During this period, it is not uncommon for players to feel nauseated and tired.  Some will vomit to empty their stomachs, especially if they've eaten the wrong foods prior to practice. 

A medical emergency develops when a player exhibits symptoms of Heat Exhaustion, Heat Cramps or Heat Stroke.  This can occur when a player becomes dehydrated and develops a core body temp in excess of 102 degrees.  First aid protocols include stabilizing the player, reducing his body temp and summoning emergency medical assistance.

Several factors may effect a player's stamina and ability to sweat during practice (the body's mechanism of cooling itself.).  These include proper hydration prior to practice (water intake), diet, outside activities during the day, and medications that are being taken.  Ask your doctor if any prescribed medications may impact the ability to sweat.

A full day at Kings Island, or at the pool, in high heat may negatively impact a player's endurance during practice.  

Hydrate prior to practice.  This does not mean drinking a can of Pepsi on your way to the field.  Drink "plenty" of water throughout the day.

Avoid drinks containing caffeine ... this includes soda, coffee and iced tea.  Avoid dairy or milk products within 2 hours before practice. 

A Sports drink is great IF ... it's high in electrolytes and potassium ... and low in carbohydrates (less than 8 grams per serving).   Drinks that are too high in sugar or carbohydrates (i.e., juices and some sport drinks) are better choices "after" practice.

Water bottles should be filled with cold water ... add ice only to maintain coolness.  Eat a nutritious diet high in minerals.  Heavy sweating will quickly deplete the body of nutrients, especially potassium.  Banannas are an excellent source of potassium. 

Review all the documents available for download regarding Heat Stress, Nutrition & Hydration ... you can't have too much information on this topic.

Visit the "Handouts" page or use the following link to access Health Related downloads.

Whenever the Heat Index (temperature with humidity factor) is 90 or above, a policy of more frequent water breaks will be implemented.  Players will be evaluated during these breaks for signs of heat related stress.  We will continue to push players to their capacity, yet remain alert to their health needs and to potential medical emergencies.

Visit the Ohio High School Athletic Association web site (a link is posted on the Coach's Web Links page) for more information.