The body also redistributes blood to the surface of the body, which causes the skin to appear red and flushed. Cotton absorbs water quickly and is not irritating to the skin. It only takes a loss of 10 percent of the body's normal water content to cause serious problems. Drinking lots of water and fluids is the best way to combat dehydration. Heat cramps are caused by sweating.
Heat cramps are painful involuntary muscle spasms in the arms, legs and mid-section.
The cramps are thought to be due to a sodium and potassium imbalance in the muscle. Treatment includes stopping the activity, drinking plenty of water or fluids and electrolyte replacement. Salting food and eating a balanced diet can help restore electrolyte balance. Heat exhaustion is caused by excessive fluid loss. Increased sweating, high body temperature, cool wet skin and some lack of coordination are signs of heat exhaustion.