Heat Cramps - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

Overview

• Heat cramps are involuntary muscle spasms
• They are caused by deficiency of water and sodium
• Heat cramps are painful, may be severe and prolonged
• Heavy exercising in hot weather causes excessive sweating
• This causes electrolyte deficiency resulting in muscle cramps
• Muscles most affected are the voluntary muscles of-

a. Calves

b. Arms

c. Thighs

d. Back

e. Abdomen

• Heat cramps are the least serious of all heat injuries
• It is a warning sign for heat exhaustion

Risk factors

• Negative sodium balance
• Diuretic medications
• Absence of acclimatization / adaptation

Causes

• Heat
• Dehydration
• Excessive sweating
• Loss of body salts
• Muscle stress
• Poor body condition

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Dizzy feeling
• Fainting
• Exhaustion
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Hot/sweaty skin

Treatment

• Rest briefly and cool down
• Manual pressure / massage must be applied to the affected muscle
• Drink one quart of water with one teaspoon of salt
• Drink some clear juice / electrolyte-containing sports drink
• Practice gentle stretching exercise of the affected muscle
• Seek medical help if the cramps remain after 1 hour

Prognosis

Heat cramps usually improves with:

• An electrolyte drink
• Cool shade
• Rest

Prevention

• Adequate fluids must be taken periodically
• Fluids must be taken before feeling thirsty
• Avoid heavy sweaty exercises in humid conditions
• Make sure to drink fluids while exercising