Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms that can happen during activity in hot environments. People who sweat a lot may be prone to heat cramps. That's because the fluid and electrolyte loss that occurs through sweating often contributes to heat cramps.
Heat cramps most often affect the muscles of the calves, arms, abdomen and back. But heat cramps may happen to any muscle group involved in exercise.
If you suspect heat cramps:
- Rest briefly and cool down.
- Drink clear juice, such as apple juice, or a sports drink that has electrolytes.
- Do gentle, range-of-motion stretching and gentle massage of the affected muscle group.
- Don't do any strenuous activity for a few hours after heat cramps go away.
Call your healthcare professional if your heat cramps don't go away within one hour. You should also seek medical attention if you have heart problems or are on a low-sodium diet.
Show References
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about extreme heat. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/faq.html. Accessed March 18, 2024.
- Ishimine P. Heat illness (other than heat stroke) in children. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 18, 2024.
- Walls RM, et al., eds. Heat illness. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 18, 2024.
- O'Connor FG, et al. Exertional heat illness in adolescents and adults: Management and prevention. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed March 18, 2024.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-heat-cramps/basics/art-20056669