Are certain student-athletes more susceptible to heat illness?
Generally, at-risk individuals include those who are unfit, overweight and those not acclimated, particularly during the first few practices and subsequent double sessions. Some additional factors include previous heat illness, current fever, gastrointestinal illness and stimulant use via medications or supplements. Does sickle-cell play a factor in the heat? Sickle-cell trait can hamper the blood’s ability to carry oxygen when triggered by physical stress. This condition is called exertional sickling which is made worse by dehydration. Sickled red cells can “logjam” blood vessels in working muscles. Maximal exercise with limited recovery could activate it; however, implementing precautions can enable student-athletes with sickle cell trait to thrive in their sport. What can be done to prevent heat illness? Acclimate. Schools should provide ample hydration, conduct progressive conditioning, provide weather-appropriate clothing and equipment, modify practices and provide medical care to
