Heat and hydration plan for south Louisiana
Prepare, hydrate, cool and know when symptoms are an emergency.
For coaches and parents
Before
- Check weather and heat risk.
- Begin hydrated.
- Bring water and provide shade.
- Adjust time, length and intensity.
During
- Schedule water and cooling breaks.
- Do not wait for thirst.
- Use a buddy system.
- Watch closely early in the season.
After
- Continue fluids and cooling.
- Eat a balanced snack or meal.
- Monitor symptoms.
- Do not return with ongoing symptoms.
Know the warning signs
Cramps, heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, confusion, fainting or hot skin.
- Take action: stop activity, move to a cool area, begin cooling and monitor symptoms.
- Call 911 for confusion, collapse, seizure, loss of consciousness or suspected heat stroke.
Primary guidance: CDC heat and athletes
Seeing SLMA Sports Medicine
Joseph Michael Garcia, MD
Primary Care Sports Medicine & Family Medicine
Joseph Michael Garcia, MD is a physician specializing in family medicine and sports medicine. Fellowship trained in sports medicine at the University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, residency at LSU – Alexandria, and board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He cares for athletes of every age — injury evaluation, non-surgical treatment, concussion care, sports physicals, and return-to-play planning.
Call to be seen985-262-1639
SLMA Comprehensive Health Clinic, Houma605 Enterprise Drive, Suite B, Houma, LA 70360
Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
SLMA Sports Medicine | 985-262-1639 — General education only. Follow stricter league rules and your clinician's instructions. Coaches do not diagnose or treat injuries.
