What do muscle cramps feel like with heat cramps?

The affected muscle may feel hard, knotted, or unable to relax. Cramps commonly affect the calves, thighs, arms, or abdomen after sweating heavily in hot weather. They can begin during exercise or soon after stopping. Heat cramps are linked with loss of fluid and salts through sweat, so tiredness, thirst, or damp skin may occur alongside the spasm. A cramp can be brief or recur if activity and heat continue.

Stop exercising and move to a cooler place. Rest the cramped muscle, stretch it gently, and use a light massage if that feels comfortable. Sip a cool drink; an oral rehydration drink may be useful after heavy sweating. Loosen extra clothing and allow your body to cool. Do not return to strenuous activity while the pain, weakness, or dizziness continues. Avoid salt tablets unless a clinician has specifically advised them.

Seek urgent help if cramps occur with confusion, fainting, a seizure, severe weakness, trouble breathing, or very hot skin, because these can signal a serious heat illness. Arrange medical assessment if the cramps do not ease after cooling and fluids, keep returning, or happen without heat or exertion. Persistent vomiting or inability to drink also needs prompt advice.

Ask whether your symptoms fit heat cramps, how much fluid is suitable for your activity, and whether medicines or a medical condition could increase your risk of dehydration or muscle spasms. Tell the clinician where the cramps occur, when they start, how long they last, and whether you also feel dizzy or weak.