Teen Athletes & Heat Stroke
Keep your head in the game
Heat Stroke is the third most common cause of sudden death in teen athletes.
It’s summertime, which means training, more practices, and even competition season for some groups. As a teen athlete, you might be used to pushing yourself for the sake of performance, even when the heat is brutal.
Don’t play with a teammate’s health
Recognizing your body’s limitations and advocating for yourself and your teammates’ health is an important part of being an athlete.
If you recognize you or your teammate are reaching heat exhaustion, make sure to take a break in the shade and hydrate.
Heat stroke is another level of danger— it can quickly become deadly. Overheating your body’s natural cooling systems can cause organ failure and even death, especially if you’re dehydrated. Symptoms of heat stroke include a throbbing headache, confusion, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, fainting, and hot and dry skin.
If your friend seems off during practice, don’t ignore it. Stop and tell your coach or trainer immediately — if it’s heat stroke, CALL 911.
Hydration = Performance
Hydration isn’t just drinking water, it’s part of your strategy. Your body can’t compete if it’s overheating!
Hydrate before you get thirsty. Drink water before, during, and after practice and games.
Cool down in the shade if you feel off.
If your sweat is leaving white marks on your clothes, you need to hydrate.
Consult your doctor and coach on how to play if you take certain medications.