Essentia Health Medical Physicians Want People To Prepare Themselves With Hydration and Rest for Marathon

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Saturday is the big day for both runners and walkers. Although this day will have warmer weather than previous years, medical professionals want you to be prepared.

“This year, you know it’s going to be a little warmer. I think that’s the main concern, and with the smoke, we may see more of the respiratory issues in some folks that have some underlying asthma. So we’ll be prepared for that, we have oxygen, we have all of our respiratory supplies, we have medication for asthma attacks, and so we’ll be ready,” said Christopher Anderson, Emergency Physician at Essentia Health.

The weather forecast for Saturday will have smoke in parts of the area after 8 am with a high of 85 degrees. People with increased risks from the wildfire smoke include people with asthma, heart disease, diabetes, children, and those who are pregnant.

“There’s greater concern for people having asthma flares and people having breathing difficulties. Highly recommend anybody that needs an inhaler for any reason carries it during the race with them. And if you’re a spectator watching you should have yours with you also,” said Josh Honeyman, Emergency Physician at Essentia Health.

Over 60 medical professionals and volunteers are on standby across the marathon for people in need, with eight ambulances on standby and six other ambulances traveling around the marathon.

“I think staying well hydrated, good nutrition, get a good nice rest. I just think treating your body well as you’re leading up to the race is the best thing you can do,” said Anderson.
“Listen to your bodies. Don’t try to push through unusual shortness of breath or pain. Make sure you’re staying well hydrated. Drinking fluids that contain electrolytes and have a good day, have a good race,” said Honeyman.

The marathon will begin at 7 a.m. outside the Fargodome.