Muscle Cramps and Heat Stroke

Heat cramps are painful spasms after sweating and exertion. Heat stroke is a medical emergency involving dangerous overheating and changes in brain function, such as confusion, unusual behaviour, collapse or a seizure. A person with heat stroke may have hot skin and may or may not be sweating. Cramps alone do not prove heat stroke, but symptoms can progress, especially after continued activity in a hot environment.

Stop exercise, move the person to shade or an air-conditioned space, remove unnecessary clothing and cool the skin with wet cloths, fans or cool water. Stay with them and monitor alertness. If they are fully awake and able to swallow, offer small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Never give fluids to someone who is confused, vomiting repeatedly, having a seizure or unable to swallow safely.

Call emergency services immediately for confusion, collapse, seizure, severe breathing trouble, repeated vomiting or a person who cannot drink safely. Continue active cooling while help is coming. Even without these signs, seek medical advice if cramps do not improve after rest and cooling, or if weakness, headache or nausea worsens. Do not let someone with suspected heat stroke return to activity that day.

Ask what caused the episode, how to plan fluids and breaks in hot weather, which medicines may increase heat risk, and when it is safe to resume exercise.