Now that it’s summer, we have to be more observant of the temperature outside as well as the heat warnings that the government sends out. It can be hazardous for everyone, especially for student-athletes who are participating in summer sports.

There are two types of heat strokes. One is exertional heat stroke and the other is classical heat stroke. Exertional heat stroke is one of the top 3 killers of athletes and soldiers in the U.S.

An exertional heat stroke is a sunstroke that is caused by intense exercise in the heat. In contrast, classical heat stroke is caused by prolonged exposure to hot weather and is most common in more vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, infants, and individuals with chronic illnesses.

The reason why extreme heat is so dangerous to your body is because it denatures your cells, causing them to leak their contents out into your blood. When the contents leak, it may cause liver/kidney damage and even failure of vital organs.

Some ways to identify exertional heat stroke are increased heart rate, confusion/disorientation, low blood pressure, and if your core body temperature measures above 40 degrees Celsius. Here is a little infographic below for more information:

The best method for cooling someone is to first remove any athletic or protective gear from the victim if any. Then, place them in an ice water tub while stirring the water and monitoring vitals continuously.

Besides cold water immersion, another way to cool an individual with exertional heat stroke is by dousing them in ice water and applying wet towels over their entire body, aiming to cool as much surface area as possible.

Stay safe and cool out there everyone!