Houston has experienced consistent 90-degree days, with some days feeling closer to 100 degrees.
As football players begin practicing ahead of a new season, Dr. Neil Gandhi, assistant medical director at Houston Methodist Hospital, outlined essential tips for athletes to stay safe in the Texas heat.
Those include staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals, getting adequate rest, and gradually acclimating one’s body to outdoor weather conditions.
“During this time of extreme heat, it becomes a little bit dangerous for our players,” said Gandhi.
He added it’s imperative for coaches to be aware of tell-tale signs of heat exhaustion.
“As soon as they notice anything amiss, whether it is signs of mild confusion, maybe a player is not reacting appropriately, someone is having any kind of what we call an alteration in mental status, it’s important for them to immediately remove that player from practice and get them to an area where they can cool down and hydrate,” Gandhi said.
As football players begin to huddle and practice, he said it’s important for them to listen to their bodies and speak up if something does not feel right.
“If athletes start to feel extreme signs of fatigue, significant muscle cramping and aching all over, that’s the time for them to notify their coach or trainer,” said Gandhi. “Definitely time for them to stop practice.”
Another important factor is the type of clothing worn during practice. Gandhi said wearing slightly loose-fitting clothing can promote the sweating process that can help maintain core functions and keep your body cool. Extremely tight-fitting clothing can be detrimental if worn in extreme heat for a long period of time.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can cause muscle cramps, heat rashes, and other problems. As it becomes more severe, players can experience heat-related syncope, along with other symptoms.
“Once organs start to shut down in our body, in severe cases, some levels of heat-related illnesses can become fatal,” said Gandhi.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more information on safety tips during extreme heat. Local advisories are available on the CDC’s HeatRisk map.
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