As the CONMEBOL Copa América 2024™ approaches, hosted by the United States during summer, the impact of global warming on athletes’ health becomes a critical issue. Rising temperatures due to climate change pose significant threats to players, making the management of Exertional Heat Stroke (EHS) essential.
The EHS guidelines are crucial for the tournament, providing vital practices for safeguarding athletes in extreme heat. This proactive stance by Medical Commission CONMEBOL not only highlights the severity of global warming but also underscores the organization’s commitment to player safety and climate awareness.
EHS is a severe medical emergency marked by hyperthermia (core body temperature above 40°C) and neurological dysfunction due to physical exertion. High temperatures and humidity exacerbate the risk, making effective heat dissipation challenging.
Normally, the body regulates temperature efficiently. However, extreme humidity (above 75%) hinders cooling, leading to dangerous conditions like dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Severe cases can result in cerebral edema and permanent brain damage.
Preventive strategies include heat acclimatization, proper hydration, and scheduling activities during cooler times. Awareness of EHS symptoms—confusion, ataxia, delirium, and seizures—is essential for early intervention.
Preventive Measures
Key measures include:
1. Medical Care and Training: Ensure adequate medical care and trained personnel familiar with EHS prevention, recognition, and treatment.
2. Pre-Participation Screening: Conduct thorough medical screenings to identify at-risk athletes.
3. Heat Acclimatization: Gradual adaptation to heat over 10-14 days.
4. Education: Inform athletes and coaches about EHS risks and management.
5. Hydration: Maintain fluid balance with regular intake of sodium-containing fluids.
6. Sleep, Diet, and Hydration: Ensure adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and proper hydration.
7. Event Guidelines: Use the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index to determine hydration breaks and monitor environmental conditions.
Emergency Response
1. Heat Cramps: Address with fluid replacement and gentle stretching.
2. Heat Syncope: Move to a shaded area, monitor vital signs, elevate legs, and rehydrate.
3. Heat Exhaustion: Cool the athlete, remove excess clothing, and provide fluids.
4. Exertional Heat Stroke: Immediate cooling, preferably with cold water immersion, and monitor temperature during treatment.
Multidisciplinary Focus
Effective management of EHS requires collaboration among healthcare professionals and clear emergency protocols.
EHS poses a significant risk to footballers in hot conditions. CONMEBOL’s Medical Commission comprehensive guidelines aim to prevent and manage EHS, ensuring athlete safety. This commitment sets a standard for sports organizations worldwide, promoting a safe environment for football even in extreme heat.
