When the dog days of summer last through fall
Even though schools are back in session, the weather in southern Ohio promises to remain warm for several months to come. Kids who spend time outdoors competing in high-energy sports like football, cross country, and soccer need to take extra precautions when playing in the heat, according to Adena pediatrician Cassie Rice, MD.
“One of the first things that I do, and I always tell my patients this, is check that weather,” Dr. Rice says. “Because heat illnesses, such as heat cramps and exhaustion, definitely get escalated in weather greater than 90 degrees.”
In addition to being aware of the weather forecast, Dr. Rice says student-athletes must adequately hydrate before they even hit the field.
“Of course, physicians say this all the time, but it’s so important,” Dr. Rice says. “If we’re starting our day with water low in the tank, it’ll take nothing for the heat cramps to come on.”
Dr. Rice says once an athlete starts sweating, that’s when they need to replace vital electrolytes with drinks like Pedialyte, Gatorade, and Powerade.
“At Adena Pediatrics, sometimes we see that scary side of things where kids are going out without that hydration,” she says. “Cramping is usually one of those first signs that you have, then you sort of go into heat exhaustion, when kids are starting to have headaches and clammy skin. They might be having some nausea or vomiting, and that’s just going to be that next phase of heat illness.”
Dr. Rice says it’s important to take frequent breaks and be aware of the warning signs of heat stroke.
“If you’re overheating and you’ve got dry skin, get to urgent care right away for treatment,” Dr. Rice says. Other red flags include a high body temperature, confusion, and rapid breathing.
