In Texas, when summer comes to a close and school begins, the heat and humidity don't magically disappear, so it's important for everyone, especially those engaging in fall semester sports to stay vigilant and mindful of how they're feeling when practicing
and playing outdoors.
Signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, including heat exhaustion, include nausea, fatigue, headaches and muscle cramps.
To beat the heat and help prevent heat exhaustion, UTMB Health physician Dr. Stacy Leung has the following recommendations:
- Take breaks in the shade and AC
- Remove heavy pads and layers when cooling off
- Build up your endurance and tolerance for the heat by starting with shorter periods of time outdoors then gradually increase it.
- Drink plenty of liquids
- Replenish salts if you're sweating a lot.
For more information on health and wellness measures--including care options -- visit the UTMB Health Primary Care page.
Dr. Stacy Leung on sports-related heat injuries