If your student athlete experiences these warning signs, he or she should be removed from competition and oral rehydration (i.e. drinking fluids) begun.
A trainer, physician or nurse should be consulted if the following symptoms develop and the player should not return to competition until the symptoms resolve.
- Goose pimples on chest and upper arms
- Headache
- Unsteadiness or dizziness
- Nausea
- Muscle spasms or cramps
- Muscle fatigue
- Profuse sweating
- Confusion
At this stage, the student athlete is in danger. A doctor should be consulted immediately and emergency measures begun. Emergency measures include applying ice cold towels to the head, neck and groin areas while awaiting transport to an emergency room.
Late signs of heat injury include:
- Unconsciousness
- Dry skin
- Rising body temperature
