Doctor warns Rotterdam Marathon runners to watch out for signs of heat stress

Participants in the Rotterdam Marathon need to be alert for heat stress. Jelmer Alsma, a member of the medical staff for the event and an internist at the Erasmus MC has said. A often occurring issue among runners is heat stroke, Alsma said. Heat stroke occurs when the body temperature of a runner goes rises to 40 degrees celsius.

Last year, 77 overheated runners needed medical treatment. A heat stroke alters the runner's consciousness. “In that case, you have to cool the runner’s whole body off with towels that have been drenched in ice water. If we are able to treat them on time then we can prevent runners from having to visit the first aid department and ensure that hospitals are not overworked,” Alsma added.

Runners can prevent the issues by recognizing the symptoms and getting used to the circumstances in which they are going to run, Alsma advised. “Your body has to acclimatize, so don’t only do training at cool moments, like in the evening. Ideally, you would get used to the circumstances that you are going to run in for two weeks. Also, be extra alert if you have been sick before running. You are extra vulnerable then.”

Alsma has said that the friends and families of the runners, who are by the side of the road they are running on, can help by keeping a close eye on the participants' condition. Many problems occur after the 35-kilometer mark. “The well-known ‘man with the hammer moment’.”

He advised runners to watch their food and drink intake during the marathon. He also said they should pick out the right clothes and shoes to help their chances.

Over 100 medical professionals have volunteered to treat the thousands of runners in the marathon and the other running distances. “On average, we treat 250 runners a year. There are two aid stations on the course and two more at and after the finish,” Alsma said.

The team consists of specialist doctors, physiotherapists, nurses, and supporting staff. A total of 10 ambulances are at the location. “In addition, there is the indispensable care provided by Red Cross staff for first aid and less serious problems," according to Alsma.

The weather seems to be favorable for the runners on Sunday. It will be around 13 degrees during the start at 10 a.m. and there is a chance of some rain. Alsma has said that the ideal temperature is below 15 degrees Celsius and some sunshine.

"Cool work at a cool event," Alsma said about the assistance to the runners. "You see that many volunteers come back every year to help.