Heat cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs. They usually affect workers who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. Sweat removes salt, and low salt levels in muscles cause the cramps.

NIOSH advises water and a snack or a drink that replaces carbohydrates and electrolytes, every 15 to 20 minutes. It also says to avoid salt tablets. Get medical help for workers with heart problems or a low sodium diet, or if cramps last more than 1 hour. Cramps can also be an early sign of heat exhaustion, so watch the worker closely. Sodium is the main electrolyte lost in sweat.