Guest Author - Kari Livingston
Softball is commonly considered a spring sport, but competitive tournaments stretch long into summer, and �fall� ball can start as early as August, when temperatures can creep into the upper 90s and even the triple digits. Practicing and playing in such heat can be dangerous.
As a player, coach or parent of a player, it is imperative that you recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and stroke. Common signs of heat exhaustion are heavy sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting and weakness. If you or one of your players is suffering from heat exhaustion, offer cool beverages, preferably water. If possible move them to an air-conditioned environment an apply a cool towel to their face and neck. Heat exhaustion is the first sign that something is wrong. It can progress to heat stroke if left untreated.
Heat stroke is much more dangerous than heat exhaustion. If left untreated, heat stroke can be fatal. Heat stroke is marked by extremely high body temperature, flushed, dry skin, confusion, shortness or breath, agitation and in some cases, seizure or coma. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, spray the victim with cool, but not cold, water. Fan the victim to speed evaporation. Remove heavy clothing and apply ice backs to the groin and underarm area. After the victim has been stabilized, she should be taken to an emergency room for evaluation.
The best prevention for heat exhaustion and heat stroke is hydration. Drinking water the day of exposure to heat is not enough to ward off the effects of excessive heat. Drink plenty of water in the week leading up to the event, and keep sports drinks like Gatorade on hand while outdoors. Stay away from alcoholic drinks, coffee, tea or caffeinated soft drinks, as these can cause fluid loss.
Clothing should be light colored (no black uniforms!) and should be loose and made of material that wicks moisture away from the skin. Many softball teams in warmer climates have moved away from thick, knee-high socks. Ankle socks are a better choice when playing in extremely hot climates.
Even with hot summer weather, softball can be enjoyed if coaches and players take precautions and learn the signs of and treatment for heat related conditions.
