Environmental Considerations Flashcards
Who is most susceptible to heat stress?
Young athletes and the elderly
How much fluid should be consumed prior to exercise?
500-590mL water/sports drink 2-3 hours prior and 200-290mL 10-20 minutes prior
What is mild dehydration?
2% of body weight is lost in fluid, impairing cardiovascular and thermoregulatory responses
What is the optimal CHO level for sports drinks?
14g per 235mL water
What is the most effective method of avoiding heat stress?
Gradual acclimatisation
When can 80% of acclimatisation be achieved?
During first 5-6 days with 2 hour morning and afternoon sessions
What athletes are most susceptible to heat stress?
- Athletes with large muscle mass
- Overweight athletes
What is heat rash?
Benign condition associated with red, raised rash combined with prickling and sweat. Result of continuously wet, un-evaporated sweat
What is heat syncope?
Heat collapse associated with rapid fatigue and overexposure. Caused by peripheral vasodilation (pooling of blood in extremities)
What are heat cramps?
Muscle spasms due to excessive water loss and electrolyte imbalance
What is exertional heat exhaustion?
Inability to sustain adequate cardiac output as a result of inadequate fluid replacement
What is exertional heatstroke?
Serious life-threatening condition characterised by sudden onset and breakdown of the thermoregulatory condition (core temp > 40 degrees)
What is the immediate treatment for exertional heatstroke?
- Strip clothing
- Sponge with cool water (do not immerse in water)
- Use ice packs
- Transport to hospital
- Avoid exercise for minimum one week
What is exertional hyponatremia?
Fluid/electrolyte disorder resulting in abnormally low concentration of sodium in the blood
At what core body temperature is death imminent?
Below 25-29 degrees
