Dehydration and heat stroke are two common heat-related conditions that can be life-threatening if left untreated. It is very important that you understand what heat stroke and dehydration are, know how to prevent them, know the symptoms, and know how to treat them.

Dehydration on the field is caused a by overexposure to the sun and the loss of liquids and body salts through sweat.

Symptoms can include:

extreme thirst dry skin fatigue light-headedness dizziness loss of concentration dry mouth increased heart rate and breathing To prevent dehydration: Drink plenty of fluids. Drink more liquids than you are losing. Drink sports drinks to help maintain electrolyte balance. To treat dehydration: Drink fluids, preferably a sports drink. In the case of extreme dehydration contact emergency services immediatly.

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition and must be treated immediatly. It is caused by over exposure to the sun while dehydrated. Under normal conditions the human body sweats to reduce internal heat. When a person becomes dehydrated, the body can no longer cool itself by sweating, causing the internal body temperature to rise to dangerously high levels.

Symptoms can include:

headache dizziness disorientation, agitation or confusion sluggishness or fatigue seizure hot, dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty a high body temperature fainting rapid heart beat hallucinations To prevent heat stroke: Drink plenty of fluids. Drink more liquids than you are losing. Drink sports drinks to help maintain electrolyte balance. Cool yourself down between games. If you feel light headed or tired sit out a game. To treat heat stroke: Contact emergency services immediatly Have the person lie down in a cool area with their feet slightly elevated Remove clothing and gently apply cool water to the skin followed by fanning to stimulate sweating. Apply ice packs to the groin and armpits.

Cool off between games and drink plenty of fluids.