Heat cramps

Heat cramps are painful spasms that occur due to stressful activity in high temperatures. Heat cramps generally consist of sudden spasms and involuntary jerks in muscles which may occur immediately or a few hours after performing strenuous physical activity in hot and humid weather. There might be potential risks of heat cramps during first few sessions of activity which one is not used to doing. People who sweat a lot and do not consume adequate fluids are also at risk of getting heat cramps. Muscles which are severely fatigued such as thighs, calves, shoulders or abdomen are generally prone to such cramps.

The exact cause of heat cramps are not known, although, it is assumed that it might be a condition that results due to lack of essential elements like sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Sweat is known to contain a large amount of sodium and profuse sweating therefore can result in a deficiency of sodium which might cause cramps.

Heat cramp symptoms are brief but painful muscle spasms. They are generally intermittent. The cramps are also recognized to be involuntary and self-limited.

Proper replenishment of sodium is helpful in getting rid of heat cramps. Heat cramps are generally self-limited and tend to go away with time, whether treated or not. Home care can prove to be sufficient in taking care of the problem.

When suffering from cramps, one should sit in a cool place and consume fluid containing salt. A solution of ½ or ¼ tablespoon of salt in a quart of water can be helpful in this regard. Intake of commercially available electrolyte and sports drinks are known to ensure the replenishment of sodium in the body. However, salt tablets should be avoided because they pose threats of upsetting the stomach and dehydrating the system.

If proper rest and restoration of salt and electrolytes does not take care of the problem, proper medical attention is necessary to be sought for the same. In cases, where the patient suffers from severe nausea, heat illness, dizziness, headache, fatigue, malaise, breathlessness and high temperatures exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit the patient should be admitted under due medical care.