How should heat cramps be treated?

How should heat cramps be treated?

• A. Stop activity, gently stretch and massage the affected muscle, and drink fluids.
• B. Apply ice to the forehead and continue activity.
• C. Take aspirin and rest.
• D. Ignore and wait for symptoms to pass.

Answer: (A)

Heat cramps come from dehydration and electrolyte loss during or after intense activity in hot weather. The best way to treat them is to stop the activity, rest in a cooler place, and rehydrate with fluids that replace both water and salts. Gently stretch the affected muscle and, if comfortable, give it a light massage to help relieve the spasm. Once the cramp eases, ease back into activity gradually and continue to drink fluids. Avoid continuing to exert yourself during a cramp, and don’t rely on pain relievers like aspirin for this issue. If cramps persist or other heat illness symptoms appear, seek medical help.

Heat cramps come from dehydration and electrolyte loss during or after intense activity in hot weather. The best way to treat them is to stop the activity, rest in a cooler place, and rehydrate with fluids that replace both water and salts. Gently stretch the affected muscle and, if comfortable, give it a light massage to help relieve the spasm. Once the cramp eases, ease back into activity gradually and continue to drink fluids. Avoid continuing to exert yourself during a cramp, and don’t rely on pain relievers like aspirin for this issue. If cramps persist or other heat illness symptoms appear, seek medical help.