Heat stroke and muscle pain

Heat and heavy exertion increase fluid loss. Muscles may cramp, ache or feel weak when the body’s fluid and salt balance is disturbed. Heat exhaustion commonly causes painful cramps, but confusion, fainting, severe weakness, altered behaviour or a seizure suggest heat stroke and require emergency care. Muscle pain alone cannot identify the cause; it can also follow exertion or another illness.

Stop activity, move into a cool environment, loosen clothing and begin active cooling with wet cloths, fanning or a cool bath. Call emergency services if heat stroke is suspected. If the person is awake, orientated and swallowing normally, small sips of a suitable drink may be reasonable while waiting for advice. Do not massage forcefully or make an unwell person exercise through cramps.

Get emergency help for muscle pain accompanied by confusion, collapse, vomiting, inability to drink, very hot skin, breathing difficulty or reduced responsiveness. Persistent cramps, marked weakness, dark urine or worsening pain after cooling also need prompt assessment. A clinician may check hydration, salts and muscle or kidney effects.

Ask which activities, medicines or medical conditions may have increased the risk, what fluids are suitable for future exertion, and how long to rest. Confirm when it is safe to return to work, sport or outdoor activity.