HEAT EXHAUSTION

Heat exhaustion can occur when the body is unable to dissipate heat from the body. If untreated this can lead to the far more serious condition of heat stroke.

Symptons of Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion, is characterized by mental confusion, muscle cramps, and often nausea or vomiting. At this stage the victim will likely NOT be sweating.

Prevention

Follow these few basic procedures to avoid heat exhaustion:

• Stay Hydrated - drink water continuously thoughout the day even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Rest whenever possible and strip off excess clothing. Moistening the skin with a damp cloth to help reduce body temperature.
• If you start to feel faint, nauseaus, or dizzy - stop any excercise immediately, drink plenty of water and reduce body temperature. If you continue to feel unwell seek medical advice from the medical team present.

Treatment

Heat exhaustion if ignored can lead to Heat Stroke. It is extremely important to seek medical advice if you feel you may be suffering from heat exhaustion.

DEHYDRATION

Dehydration is caused by the body losing fluids.

Symptoms

• Headache
• Thirst
• Loss of athletic performance
• Tiredness
• Elevated body temperature
• Dizziness / feeling faint

Prevention

Unsurprising, the way to avoid dehydration is to drink. Replacing fluids is essential to both your health and your athletic performance. You should drink small quantities continuously throughout the day, whether you're competeing or not. If you feel you may be suffering from dehydration seek advice from the first aiders present at the competition.

Treatment

If you are dehydrated immediately drink plenty of fluids, but ensure you don't make yourself vomit, as this will further dehydrate the body. Reduce body temperature. Should you continue to feel unwell contact a member of the medical team.