Exertional Heat-Related Injuries
Exertional Heat-Related Injuries
Exertional heat-related injuries are injuries that occur as a result of exercise or physical activity during warm or hot temperatures. More than 5,500 exertional heat-related injuries are treated in U.S. emergency departments each year. These injuries can happen to anyone and often happen during sports, exercise and “everyday” activities such as mowing the lawn and working on the house.Exertional Heat-Related Injury Facts
- It does not have to be very hot outside for exertional heat-related injuries to happen.
- Most of the exertional heat-related injuries to children and teens happen during sports and recreation.
- For adults, golf, exercise and mowing the lawn are activities that lead to many exertional heat-related illnesses.
- 1 out of 4 injuries occurs while people are performing everyday activities such as yard work, home maintenance and moving furniture.
- Common symptoms include:
- High body temperature
- Headache
- Heart feels like it is “racing” or beating faster than usual
- Dizziness
- Nausea/feeling sick to your stomach
- Confusion
- Passing out
Tips for Preventing Injuries
- Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after physical activity. Cold water and flavored sports drinks are best. Avoid fruit juices and sodas.
- Schedule outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, either before 11 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
- Take frequent breaks to rest in a cool, shaded spot while doing outdoor work or being physically active.
- Parents and coaches should aways remind young athletes to drink lots of water before, during and after any exercise.
- Young athletes should be gradually exposed to extreme playing conditions, including hot temperatures.
- Parents should consult with coaches about changing practice sessions or games if they occur during the hotter parts of the day.
Additional Heat-Related Injuries Resources
- Exertional heat-related injuries treated in emergency departments in the U.S., 1997-2006
- PubMed Abstract - December 2010
- Press Release - December 2010