As the weather begins to cool off, it is important to talk about the effects of the recent heat wave that passed through Illinois. Heat. In the last week of August in Illinois, temperatures were in the nineties and even surpassed one hundred for a few days. Extreme heat like this can impact multiple things in our daily lives, especially sports. These temperatures may put people at higher risk for asthma attacks, dehydration, heat stroke, and more.

An asthma attack occurs when a person’s airways narrow due to inflammation, swelling, or excess production of mucus. Typically, with heat in Illinois also comes humidity. There tends to be allergens (such as dust) in the air when it is humid. Inhaling this air can trigger an allergic asthma attack. People with sports-induced asthma are also highly affected by humidity. As stated previously, the airways narrow, making it difficult to take in sufficient amounts of oxygen. It’s is hard to do so with so many water particles in the air. 

While participating in an outdoor sport on a hot day, it is particularly important to stay hydrated. Dehydration occurs when the body loses too much of its water content. This happens through various ways. In this case, exercising in high temperatures can cause excessive sweating. If a person becomes so dehydrated that they cannot sweat anymore, then their body temperature increases rapidly, causing a heat stroke. Possible symptoms of a heat stroke include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and loss of consciousness. Dehydration is far more dangerous than just being thirsty.

Because the physical effects of extreme heat are so threatening, many sporting events and practices were canceled/rescheduled during that last week of August. The postponement of these events can ruin people’s schedules, as well as affect mental health. It is important to have outlets or destress methods to help keep good mental health, and for many, sports serve as that critical stress reliever. When somebody is unable to go to practice for a few days, they are more likely to deal with stress inadequately.

Heat can affect people both physically and mentally. It can also decrease one’s level of athletic performance.  However, as long as students stay hydrated and are aware of their physical limitations, they should remain safe. 

Information used from:

https://aafa.org/asthma/asthma-triggers-causes/weather-triggers-asthma/#:~:text=Heat%20and%20Humidity,the%20air%20irritate%20sensitive%20airways.