Medical Tips
Dehydration
When you lose more fluids than you are taking in, you become dehydrated. That means your body is operating with less water than needed for normal body functions.
Many of you are not used to the Florida sun, heat, and humidity. Dehydration can be prevented. Here are some tips to help.
Drink fluids before, during, and after your round every day. Wear loose-fitting clothes and a hat. These will keep the body cooler and help the body lose less fluid through sweating.
Bring an extra pair of socks to avoid blisters. Avoid drinks containing caffeine, as these can pull fluid from the body and contribute to dehydration.
Should you need assistance before you play, come to the Tournament Office (Imperial Ballroom).
If you are on the course and feel the need for assistance, please find the nearest Marshal or Rules Official. They will radio the paramedic with your location.
If you can continue playing, please do so. If not, your group will be held there until you can resume play.
Please remember that if you leave the course for any reason, you will be withdrawn or disqualified depending on the circumstances.
There are water stations and ice barrels stocked with sports drinks and water throughout the course. These are for players only.
Players, please make sure to use these opportunities to keep yourself hydrated.
Ways to Avoid Dehydration
What is dehydration? Simply, it is when you lose more fluids than you are taking in. That means your body is operating with less water than needed for normal body functions.
Dehydration can be prevented. Here are some tips to help:
- Drink fluids before, during, and after exercising. 8 12 ounces every 15-20 minutes of exercise are recommended.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes and a hat. These will keep the body cooler and help the body lose less fluid through sweating.
- Avoid alcohol and drinks containing caffeine, as these can pull fluid from the body and contribute to dehydration.
- What is the best fluid to drink? Water is always a good choice, but check with your trainer to see if they recommend a sports drink during heavy exercise.
Heat Exhaustion / Heat Stroke
Prolonged or intense exposure to hot temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke (also known as sunstroke).
As your body works to cool itself under extreme or prolonged heat, blood rushes to the surface of your skin. As a result, less blood reaches your brain, muscles, and other organs.
This can interfere with both your physical strength and your mental capacity, leading in some cases to dangerous situations.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion can strike anyone who is physically active in a hot environment. It occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in.
Symptoms may include:
- Excessive sweating
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Cold, pale, and clammy skin
If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is more dangerous. Body temperature can exceed 105 degrees F. Continued exposure can strain the circulatory system, possibly resulting in stroke or heart failure.
Those who already have circulatory problems are at greater risk.
Symptoms may include:
- Raised body temperature
- Rapid pulse
- Altered level of consciousness
- Dry, red skin that is hot to the touch
Seek medical attention immediately.
Move the golfer to a cool area and use ice packs or cold compresses on the neck, armpits, and groin to help lower body temperature.
