Be serious about siriasis. Guidelines for avoiding heat injury during 'dog days'.

Heat injury is a threat to athletes performing in a hot, humid environment. High metabolic rate, dehydration, and hidromeiosis all interfere with regulation of core body temperature and compromise athletic performance. Precautions can be taken to prepare athletes for these adverse conditions and to minimize potentially serious consequences. Physicians working closely with coaching staffs and athletes can establish a sound medical program aimed at prevention of heat-related injuries and, when injury does occur, at immediate, decisive management.