10 Signs of Heat Stroke
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Heat Stroke Sign #9: Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramping is another sign of heat stroke that occurs as a result of dehydration and loss of electrolytes. Sweating, one of the initial symptoms of heat stroke, involves loss of body fluids. When sweat evaporates from the skin surface, it helps to lower body temperature. However, besides water, sweat also contains dissolved minerals like magnesium, potassium, and sodium.
These minerals in the form of electrolytes are critical for muscle functions besides other roles. When the body loses significant amounts of the electrolytes, the new levels may be inadequate for optimal muscle function. This is why heat stroke can cause muscular cramping. Muscle cramps are more common in heat stroke resulting from extreme workouts.
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