Understanding the Potential Dangers of Adverse Environmental Conditions

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Understanding the Potential Dangers of Adverse Environmental Conditions Chapter 10 Pages 259 -277

Understanding the Potential Dangers of Adverse Environmental Conditions Chapter 10 Pages 259 -277

Hyperthermia n n Hyperthermia – increased body temperature. Heat can be lost and/or gained

Hyperthermia n n Hyperthermia – increased body temperature. Heat can be lost and/or gained through: n Metabolic heat production Conductive heat exchange Convective heat exchange Radiant heat exchange n Evaporative heat loss n n n Sweat glands allow water to be transported to the surface of the skin where it evaporates; thus, taking large quantities of heat with it. Heat loss through evaporation is impaired when relative humidity reaches 65% and stops when it reaches 75%.

Monitoring the Heat Index n n The combination of heat, humidity, and sunshine warrant

Monitoring the Heat Index n n The combination of heat, humidity, and sunshine warrant caution. Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index incorporates readings from several thermometers. n n Dry Bulb Temperature (DBT) is recorded from standard mercury thermometer. Wet Bulb Temperature (WBT) uses a wet wick/gauze wrapped around the end of a thermometer that is swung in the air. Globe Temperature (GT) measures the sun’s radiation and uses a black metal casing around the end of thermometer. Sling psychrometers and digital psychrometers aid in the calculation of the heat index. Then, based on the heat index, recommendations are made regarding fluid replacement and the length of work/rest.

Heat Illnesses n Heat Syncope n n Also called “heat collapse” is associated with

Heat Illnesses n Heat Syncope n n Also called “heat collapse” is associated with rapid physical fatigue during over-exposure to heat. Caused by peripheral vasodilation of blood vessels, hypotension, and/or pooling of blood in the extremities. Relieved by laying the athlete down in a cool environment and replacing fluids. Heat Cramps n n n Extremely painful muscle spasms that occur mostly in the calf and abdomen. Related to the excessive loss of water and electrolytes (especially sodium). Treatment of heat cramps includes the ingestion of water and sodium, and stretching with ice massage.

Heat Illnesses, Cont’d n Heat Exhaustion n n Results from inadequate replacement of fluids

Heat Illnesses, Cont’d n Heat Exhaustion n n Results from inadequate replacement of fluids lost through sweating. Athletes that experience heat exhaustion will collapse and exhibit profuse sweating, pale skin, elevated body temperature (102 degrees), dizziness, hyperventilation, and/or rapid pulse. Immediate treatment includes the ingestion of large quantities of fluid. May be necessary to replace fluids via IV. Obtain a rectal temperature. Heatstroke n n Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Athletes will experience an LOC, flushed/hot skin, less sweating than normal, shallow breathing, rapid/strong pulse, and a core body temperature of 104 degrees. Heatstroke is a breakdown of the body’s thermoregulatory system. The athlete must be transported ASAP to hospital. Get athlete to cool environment and strip off all clothing. Immerse the athlete in cold water or sponge them down with cool water.

Prevention of Heat Illness n n Coaches need to understand that heat illness can

Prevention of Heat Illness n n Coaches need to understand that heat illness can be prevented. The following practices should be employed: n n n Unrestricted fluid replacement Gradual acclimatization Identification of susceptible individuals Lightweight uniforms Routine weight checks/ documentation

Recommendations for Fluid Replacement n n n n Athletes should begin all exercise sessions

Recommendations for Fluid Replacement n n n n Athletes should begin all exercise sessions well hydrated. To ensure proper hydration, athletes should consume 17 -20 oz of water/sports drink before exercise and then 7 -10 oz 20 minutes before exercise. Fluid replacement beverages should be accessible during activity and consumed at a rate of 7 -10 oz q 10 -20 minutes. During activity, the athlete should consume the max amount of fluid that can be tolerated. A cool/flavored beverage is recommended (50 -59 degrees). Sports drinks recommended for exercise events lasting longer than 1 hour. 6% carbohydrate solution in optimal for sports drinks.

Hypothermia n n Hypothermia – decrease in body temperature. Low temperatures in combination with

Hypothermia n n Hypothermia – decrease in body temperature. Low temperatures in combination with wind and damp can pose major problems for athletes. Shivering ceases between 85 -90 degrees. Death occurs if core body temperature rises to 107 degrees and falls below 77 -85 degrees.

Cold Disorders n n n Frostnip involves ears, nose, cheeks, chin, fingers, and/or toes.

Cold Disorders n n n Frostnip involves ears, nose, cheeks, chin, fingers, and/or toes. n Skin may appear firm, with cold/painless areas that peel/blister within 24 -72 hours. Superficial frostbite involves the skin and superficial tissues. n Skin appears hard, cold, and waxy. n When rewarming, the area feels numb, then stings/burns. Area may blister and be painful for weeks. Deep frostbite is a serious injury. n Hospitalization is required. n Rapid rewarming is necessary and may include hot drinks, heating pads, and/or hot water bottles (100 -110 degrees). n During rewarming tissue becomes blotchy, red, swollen and painful. n Gangrene a concern.

Overexposure to Sun n n The most serious effect of long-term UVR exposure are

Overexposure to Sun n n The most serious effect of long-term UVR exposure are premature aging and skin cancer. Sunscreens can help prevent damaging effects of UVR. SPF: Sun Protection Factor Higher numbers provide greater protection. For example, an SPF 15 means that an individual can be exposed to UVR 15 x longer before the skin turns red. Sunscreens needed most between 10 AM and 4 PM and should be applied 15 -30 minutes before sun exposure.

Coach’s Corner n n n The following guidelines should be followed during an electrical

Coach’s Corner n n n The following guidelines should be followed during an electrical storm: In situations where thunder/lightning is present a crouched position should be assumed. If thunder/lightning can be heard or seen, stop activity and seek protective shelter. Avoid standing water and metal objects at all times. Allow 30 minutes to pass after the last sound of thunder/lightning before resuming play. Refer to the NATA Position Statement: Lightning Safety for Athletics and Recreation for more information.

Homework Assignment: n Article Key Points on “NATA Position Statement on Exertional Heat Illness.

Homework Assignment: n Article Key Points on “NATA Position Statement on Exertional Heat Illness. ”