What are the early signs that a player is struggling with the heat?
Guideline- England
- UKHSA
- Heat-Health Alerts
- Hot weather
- Youth sport
- 2026
- Coaches
- Under 18
UKHSA describes two earlier stages before heatstroke.
Heat stress
- Behaving out of character
- Discomfort or irritability
These signs get worse with physical activity.
Heat exhaustion
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Heavy sweating with pale, clammy skin
If not treated, heat stress and heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.
Updated 21 Oct 2026