heat cramps

(medicine) Painful voluntary-muscle spasm and cramps following strenuous exercise, usually in persons in good physical condition, due to loss of sodium chloride and water from excessive sweating.

Painful muscular contractions caused by prolonged exposure to hot conditions. The contractions probably result from electrolyte and water imbalances. Leg muscles and abdominal muscles seem to be particularly vulnerable to heat cramps.

Heat cramps can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluid and, if necessary, a weak electrolyte solution to replace salts.

Painful muscular contractions caused by prolonged exposure to environmental heat. They probably result from electrolyte imbalances. Drinking plenty of watery fluids and obtaining adequate salt in the diet should prevent heat cramps.

Painful muscle spasms following hard work in intense heat, caused by loss of salt and water from profuse sweating.