# Heat Cramps

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**What is it?**</span>

##### <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur during heavy exercise in hot environments. The spasms may be more intense and more prolonged than typical nighttime leg cramps.</span>

##### <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Muscles most often affected include those of your calves, arms, abdominal wall and back, although heat cramps may involve any muscle group involved in exercise.</span>

#### <span style="color: rgb(224, 62, 45);">**Plan of Action:**</span>

##### <span style="text-decoration: underline;">**If you suspect heat cramps**</span>

- ##### Rest briefly and cool down
- ##### Drink clear juice or an electrolyte-containing sports drink
- ##### Practice gentle, range-of-motion stretching and gentle massage of the affected muscle group
- ##### Don't resume strenuous activity for several hours or longer after heat cramps go away
- ##### Call your doctor if your cramps don't go away within one hour or so