When to worry about muscle aches with heat cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms that can follow heavy sweating during work, exercise or hot weather. They often affect the legs, arms or abdomen and may occur with thirst, weakness or heavy sweating. Ongoing exposure to heat can progress to more serious heat illness, particularly when a person becomes confused or stops sweating normally.

Stop activity and move to shade or an air-conditioned place. Loosen extra clothing, cool the skin with damp cloths or a fan, and sip a suitable rehydration drink if the person is alert and able to swallow. Gently stretch the affected muscle without forcing it. Do not return to strenuous activity while cramps, weakness or dizziness continue.

Call emergency services for confusion, fainting, seizures, very hot skin, severe weakness, trouble breathing, or inability to drink. Obtain urgent advice if cramps do not improve after moving out of the heat and resting, or if vomiting prevents hydration. A person with suspected heatstroke should not be given drinks if they are drowsy or unable to swallow safely.

Ask how to replace fluids safely, when you can resume exercise, whether medicines or health conditions increase heat risk, and which symptoms need emergency action.