Contents
Muscle heat cramps are involuntary contractions that are usually painful and are symptoms of excessive electrolyte loss from sweat or exertion. Cramps usually occur rapidly in places such as the muscles in the legs and arms. To prevent discomfort, you should replenish your electrolytes, e.g. by drinking isotonic drinks or lightly salted water.
What are thermal muscle cramps?
Muscle heat cramps are muscle contractions independent of us, often accompanied by a feeling of pain. These cramps occur as a result of dehydration or excessive exercise. Then the body loses electrolytes in the form of calcium, potassium or magenz. The ailment most often affects the muscles of the legs and arms. In order for the discomfort not to occur, the level of electrolytes in the body should be systematically replenished. Therefore, when staying in an environment with increased temperature, instead of pure water, one should drink large amounts of multi-electrolyte isotonic drinks, and in their absence – lightly salted water.
The mechanism of the formation of thermal muscle contractions
When the ambient temperature rises, the body activates defense mechanisms to prevent overheating. Thermogenesis is reduced – the production of thermal energy in the processes of burning nutrients and during muscle work. At the same time, heat dissipation mechanisms are activated, of which sweating is the most efficient.
Jar it is the secretion of sweat glands located throughout the body skin. It consists primarily of water, but also contains other compounds, including minerals. When released to the surface of the skin, it is evaporated with the participation of thermal energy accumulated in the blood flowing into the skin’s blood vessels. In this way, the blood temperature is lowered, and thus – the whole organism.
However, along with sweat, there is also a loss of electrolytes important for the body (potassium, magnesium and calcium). Its size is proportional to the amount of sweat evaporated. It is greatest in people who exercise in a high temperature environment.
It is as a result of the excessive loss of electrolytes with sweat that thermal cramps occur – involuntary, excessive muscle contractions, often causing pain. The cramps start suddenly – first in the limb muscles, then in the abdominal muscles.
Causes of thermal muscle cramps
The main causes of thermal muscle cramps are:
- physical exercise – during it, along with sweat, large amounts of electrolytes necessary for the proper functioning of the muscles (including magnesium, calcium, sodium) are excreted; this is especially true when the physical exertion takes place in a hot environment. Then the body becomes dehydrated;
- people working in warm rooms – heat cramps often occur especially at the beginning, when the body is not used to such a working environment.
What are the symptoms of thermal muscle cramps?
The most common locations for thermal cramps are the calves, thighs, and shoulder muscles (although they can appear almost anywhere). People with this condition complain of severe muscle pain during an attack. Cramps are most unbearable in pregnant women and patients suffering from hyponatremia, i.e. electrolyte disturbances.
How to heal?
For mild cramps that pass spontaneously, it is enough to use a painkiller or ointment. However, when they are bothersome and persist for a long time, you should consult a doctor who will select the appropriate type of treatment. The most common preparation prescribed by a specialist is quinine sulfate.
Muscle heat cramps – first aid
During thermal contractions of muscles, the most important thing is to massage the area gently. Then you should stretch your muscles slowly until you feel no pain. If the cramp is on the leg – start to move it and then lift it up. Finally, grasp it with your fingers and pull it up towards your knee. Then you should feel the muscle stretch.
Prevention is also important, so if you are exercising – make sure you replenish your electrolytes. Isotonic drinks or water are recommended.
It is also good to take a hot shower or a warm bath (maximum time is 20 minutes). Heat improves surface circulation and makes the muscles more flexible. Another method is ice packs / massage, which not only relieve pain, but also have anti-inflammatory properties. However, you should not massage the affected area for more than 10 minutes. You can use the FASCIQ TRIO massage balls and rollers set to massage your aching muscles.