South Florida student-athletes urged to stay hydrated in extreme heat
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. —
With high school sports underway in South Florida, student athletes are practicing and competing in some of the hottest conditions of the year, prompting doctors to stress the importance of hydration and awareness of heat-related illnesses.
From football fields to cross-country courses, young athletes are spending hours outdoors in the heat. Pediatric physician Dr. Sara Tano said preparation for these conditions should begin well before practices or games.
“Hydrating throughout the day, especially the kiddos that are in school and then going to play sports afterwards. Just hydrating beforehand is going to be very helpful,” Tano said.
Tano explained that athletes and parents should be aware of the early signs of heat exhaustion, which include nausea, dizziness, abdominal pain, and heavy sweating. She said these symptoms indicate it is time to stop, move to a cooler area, and rehydrate.
“A little bit more severe is heat stroke, which is basically all the signs of heat exhaustion, plus altered mental status. Them not acting like them, their normal selves. Those are all things that parents should really be on the lookout for,” Tano said.
While water is critical, Tano noted that athletes also lose salts and electrolytes through sweat. Replacing these fluids can help prevent symptoms like nausea and muscle cramps.
“I think just being diligent about your child’s intake of their fluids. I mean, everyone has water bottles nowadays, making sure they’re filled and checking to make sure that they’re drinking them throughout the day. Asking those questions about how they’re feeling after playing sports,” Tano said.
Tano added that awareness about hydration has improved over the years, but parents and coaches must continue to ensure young athletes are staying hydrated and taking breaks when needed.
Stay up to date: The latest headlines and weather from WPBF 25
Get the latest news updates with the WPBF 25 News app. You can download it here.
Your neighborhood: Local coverage from WPBF 25 News