Heat Cramps

   >> Overview

• Heat cramps are involuntarymusclespasms 
• They are caused by deficiency of water and sodium 
• Heat cramps are painful, may be severe and prolonged
• Heavy exercising in hot weather causesexcessivesweating
• This causes electrolyte deficiency resulting inmusclecramps
• 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 warningsignfor heat exhaustion

   >>Risk factors

• Negative sodium balance
• Diureticmedications
• Absence of acclimatization / adaptation

   >>Causes

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

   >>SymptomsSome of the most commonsymptomsare:

• 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 
• Seekmedicalhelpif 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