Racing this weekend here in Northern California? This weekend is going to get a lot warmer, compared to how the past week has been. We've been blessed by wonderfully cool weather this week, but this is August. By Sunday, some areas may get close to 100 degrees. Even if you are racing in the morning, it will get very warm.

Remember to up your fluids NOW, and keep hydrating while you are racing. Good fluid management is the key. Avoiding problems, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, through prevention is your best bet to have a fun race!

Below are some symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

Heat exhaustion symptoms

• Often pale with cool, moist skin
  
• Sweating profusely
  
• Muscle cramps or pains
  
• Feels faint or dizzy
  
• May complain of headache, weakness, thirst, and nausea
  
• Core (rectal) temperature elevated-usually more than 100°F-and the pulse rate increased

Heat stroke symptoms

• Unconscious or has a markedly abnormal mental status (dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, or coma)
  
• Flushed, hot, and dry skin (although it may be moist initially from previous sweating or from attempts to cool the person with water)
  
• May have slightly elevated blood pressure at first that falls later
  
• May be hyperventilating
  
• Rectal (core) temperature of 105°F or more

Heat stroke is LIFE THREATENING, and can occur in varying temperatures, but it more common when air temperatures are in the 90's and 100's. Progression from heat exhaustion to heat stroke can happen very rapidly.