exertional sickling

Athletes with sickle cell trait (SCT) are at increased risk of life-threatening heat stroke from a condition called exertional sickling, with heat, dehydration, asthma, high-intensity exercise and high altitude known risk factors. But why do some SCT athletes never suffer from exertional sickling or heat illness while others do (with some cases resulting in death)? A new study hopes to answer that question.

A helpful compilation of statistics on concussions, exercise-induced asthma, exertional heat illness, sudden cardiac arrest, exertional sickling, use of steroids and dietary supplements, and cervical spine injury collected by the National Athletic Trainers' Association.

With spring sports seasons in full swing and preparation for summer sports participation and training around the corner, the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) re-released today its Inter-Association Task Force Consensus Statement guidelines on sickle cell trait and the athlete.