Parkland physician urges athletes and families to take heat seriously
Heat-related illness can develop quickly during practice and outdoor activities
As North Texas continues to experience dangerously high temperatures, physicians at Parkland Memorial Hospital are reminding athletes, coaches, parents and anyone exercising outdoors to take heat seriously. Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly during outdoor practices, workouts or competitions and even during activities held inside hot, non-air-conditioned facilities.
So far in 2026, 31 people have been treated in Parkland’s Emergency Department for heat-related illnesses, including 16 patients in July alone, underscoring the dangers of prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
“Heat illness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level,” said Jeffery Metzger, MD, Chief of Emergency Services at Parkland. “Athletes are especially vulnerable because intense physical activity generates additional body heat. When temperatures and humidity are high, the body’s ability to cool itself can become overwhelmed, leading to heat exhaustion or even life-threatening heat stroke.”
One of the most important tools for planning outdoor activity is the heat index, which combines air temperature and humidity to indicate how hot it actually feels. High humidity limits the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating, increasing the risk of heat-related illness.
“Even practices scheduled early in the morning or later in the evening can pose a risk during periods of extreme heat,” Dr. Metzger said. “Coaches, athletes and parents should monitor weather conditions closely, adjust practice intensity and duration when necessary, and never ignore the warning signs of heat illness. Hydration is essential, but during prolonged or vigorous exercise in the heat, athletes should also replace the sodium and other electrolytes lost through sweat. Water alone may not be enough during extended periods of heavy exertion.”
To reduce the risk of heat-related illness, Parkland physicians recommend:
- Schedule strenuous outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day whenever possible.
- Take frequent breaks in shade or air-conditioned areas.
- Stay hydrated before, during and after activity. Drink water regularly and, during prolonged or vigorous exercise with heavy sweating, replace the sodium and other electrolytes lost through sweat. Don't wait until you're thirsty.
- Gradually increase activity levels over several days to allow the body to acclimate to the heat.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Never exercise or practice when ill, especially with a fever, vomiting or diarrhea.
- Coaches should be aware of athletes' medical conditions and medications that may increase heat risk.
- Avoid drinking excessive amounts of plain water during prolonged, heavy exertion without replacing sodium. Although uncommon, this can lead to dangerously low sodium levels, which may cause seizures and other serious medical complications.
Dr. Metzger also encourages athletes to use a buddy system.
"Practice with a teammate who can recognize the signs of heat illness and check on you regularly," he said. "Early recognition and quick action can prevent a medical emergency."
Watch for signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, including:
- Heavy sweating or unusually pale, cool skin
- Fatigue or weakness
- Muscle cramps
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Loss of consciousness
Children and young athletes are particularly at risk during the first several days of pre-season practices because their bodies have not yet adjusted to exercising in the heat. Schools and athletic programs should gradually increase practice intensity over time, provide frequent hydration breaks and allow unrestricted access to water.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated immediately. If someone becomes confused, loses consciousness, has a high body temperature or stops sweating despite the heat, call 911 immediately. While waiting for emergency responders, move the person to a cooler area and begin cooling them with cold water, ice packs or cool, wet towels if available.
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