Baseball is one of the few sports played outside in the dog days of summer, making heat exhaustion a serious threat, especially in places with notoriously hot summers. Heat exhaustion is the result of the body overheating, and if you can recognize the symptoms as soon as possible you can help get out of the heat and prevent your situation from worsening.
Causes
In most places, baseball is played in the summer, where temperatures and heat indices can surpass 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat exhaustion happens because your body is unable to cool appropriately as it has to deal with not only the temperature but also your exertion as you play baseball. Baseball uniforms and protective equipment are often made of polyester or other heavier materials that do not breathe as easily nor allow sweat to evaporate as needed.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion falls in the middle of the spectrum of heat-related illnesses, according to MayoClinic.com, being more severe than heat cramps but not as bad as heat stroke. That being said, it is important to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion to make sure you treat them right away. Heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, low blood pressure and goosebumps are all common symptoms of heat exhaustion.
Treatment
One of the benefits of playing baseball is that players get to come off the field into the dugout after every inning. This gives you an opportunity to hydrate and rest in the shade, loosen your clothing and place a cold towel on your neck. Catchers should take off their equipment between innings, and drink at least 8 oz. of water or a sports drink every 20 minutes, which means pushing fluid every inning.
Prevention
When you know that the temperatures are going to be high, there are a number of steps you can take to help stave off heat exhaustion. Covering the dugout with a tarp to shield the sun and supplying cold drinks and towels for the players is a must. You can also wear sunscreen, reapplying often, to help shield from UV rays. Baseball players benefit from wearing a cap and if possible, wear a light-colored jersey.
