Which condition is characterized by painful muscle spasms; prevention with fluids/electrolytes; treatment with fluids, stretching, ice massage?

• A. Exertional Heat Exhaustion
• B. Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)
• C. Heat Syncope
• D. Heat Cramps

Answer: (D)

Painful muscle spasms linked to exercise in the heat are heat cramps. They result from fluid and electrolyte losses that disrupt normal muscle function. Prevention with fluids plus electrolytes helps maintain both hydration and electrolyte balance, reducing cramp risk. When cramps occur, the recommended treatment is to stop activity, rehydrate with electrolyte-containing fluids, gently stretch the affected muscle, and use ice massage to relieve the spasm. This pattern fits heat cramps, which differ from exertional heat exhaustion (which includes dizziness, weakness, and possible nausea), heat syncope (fainting from blood pressure changes), and heat rash (skin irritation from sweating).