Heat Syncope

Heat Syncope is also known as orthostatic dizziness. This refers to a fainting episode that someone can experience in high environmental temperatures, usually during the initial days of heat exposure.

Signs and Symptoms

Dizziness (vertigo), weakness, lightheadedness, tunnel vision, pale or sweaty skin, nausea, decreased and weak pulse rate, and normal exercising rectal temperature

Predisposing Factors

Standing for long periods of time, usually wearing a uniform, immediately after cessation of activity, or after rapidly standing from prolonged resting or sitting posture

Treatment

Move person to shaded/cool area, monitor vital signs, elevate legs to promote venous return, and rehydrate
Individuals who experience heat syncope will recover relatively quickly, within 10-15 minutes

Return-to-Play

An athlete may return to play once his/her symptoms have resolved and any other medical conditions have been ruled out. Athletes should attempt to rehydrate as necessary.

Prevention

Heat syncope often occurs in individuals that are unacclimatized to the heat (the body is not used to increased environmental temperatures) therefore, individuals should adapt to exercise in the heat gradually acclimatize over 10-14 days by progressively increasing duration and intensity of work. Heat syncope may also be due to dehydration, which limits total blood volume, and predisposes individuals to syncope. All exercising individuals should be appropriately hydrated prior to exercise.