Field hockey player rushed to hospital after asthma attack

Sophomore Elsa Haag was rushed from Blair in an ambulance after suffering an asthma attack during field hockey practice on Sept. 20. She has made a full recovery.

Haag was participating in routine drills about an hour and half into practice when her asthma struck, according to field hockey coach Brook Franceschini. "She was doing regular field hockey drills," said Franceschini. The attack alone was not what caused the emergency, according to Franceschini, who said that Haag also suffered from dehydration and minor heat exhaustion.

Franceschini, who is emergency and CPR certified, brought Haag inside and put damp cloths on her to lower her body temperature. Haag reportedly lost feeling in her fingers. The coach then called emergency services to bring Haag to the hospital, where she received fluids.

Senior Christine Kim, a team captain, recalled the incident. "She stopped running for a little bit, and the coaches ran over to her," said Kim. "It looked like she fainted." Kim reported that the team was highly concerned about the incident. "We were all really worried about her and hoped that she would be fine," she said.

Haag was unavailable for comment.

Although Haag used the inhaler she had with her, the heat and lack of water may have triggered the attack. According to Franceschini, several similar incidents have been reported across the country. She noted that it is extremely vital that athletes, especially those who wear heavy padding such as lacrosse and football players, take breaks from the physical activity and maintain good hydration. "The athletes should be getting at least eight glasses of water a day," said Franceschini. "They should also wear clothing that allows sweat to go through."