When the temperatures rise, so does your risk of heat-related illnesses. Heat cramps are often the first warning sign that your body needs a break. These painful muscle spasms typically strike during or after intense physical activity in hot weather and can affect anyone, especially athletes, outdoor workers, and children. Understanding how to prevent and treat heat cramps can help you stay safe and avoid more serious conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Continue reading to learn more about heat cramps and when to visit urgent care.
For same-day heat-related illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park. Our center provides both urgent care and primary care services for all patients and families in the Denver, CO area. Walk-in or plan your visit below!
What Are Heat Cramps?
Heat cramps are involuntary muscle spasms. They typically occur during heavy sweating, when the body loses essential fluids and electrolytes like sodium and potassium. This imbalance causes muscles to contract and cramp painfully. Heat cramps usually affect the calves, thighs, arms, and abdomen. They’re often an early sign of heat exhaustion and should be taken seriously.
Common causes of heat cramps include:
- Exercising or working out in hot environments
- Not drinking enough water
- Losing too much salt through sweat
- Wearing heavy or non-breathable clothing
- Inadequate rest or recovery during heat exposure
How To Prevent Heat Cramps
The best way to deal with heat cramps is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly before, during, and after outdoor activity. If you’re sweating heavily, consider a sports drink with electrolytes to replenish what you’ve lost.
- Take Breaks: Step out of direct sunlight and rest in a cool or shaded area every 30 to 60 minutes if you’re outdoors or exerting yourself.
- Wear Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics that allow your skin to breathe and help regulate body temperature.
- Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Try to exercise or do yard work early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.
- Condition Your Body: Gradually build up to intense outdoor activity, especially if you’re not used to working in the heat.
How To Treat Heat Cramps
If you or someone else experiences heat cramps, be sure to stop the activity immediately. Rest in a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned space to help lower your body temperature. Drink water or an electrolyte beverage slowly. Light stretching and massaging the affected area can relieve tension and reduce spasms. Using a cool, damp cloth on the cramping area can help soothe pain and inflammation. Avoid returning to physical activity until the cramps have completely stopped and you’re fully hydrated.
Most heat cramps go away with rest and hydration, but you should visit urgent care if:
- The cramps last longer than one hour
- You experience dizziness, nausea, or vomiting
- There are signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke
- You can’t keep fluids down
Get Relief For Heat Cramps at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park
Don’t ignore the signs your body is overheating. At AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park, our medical team can assess your symptoms, provide IV fluids if needed, and help you recover quickly so you can safely return to your daily activities. We provide walk-in care and expert treatment of heat-related conditions– all with no appointment needed. If you’re dealing with heat cramps, don’t hesitate to visit us! Our medical team is available 7 days a week to provide the highest quality of care. We are committed to serving all patients in the greater Denver, CO area– including RiNo, North Denver, and Central Park. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any questions, please contact a member of our team directly at (303) 381-1100.
