Heat cramps normally occur after exercise has ceased and are generally associated with inadequate salt replacement in unacclimatized individuals. This condition may occur with or without other symptoms of heat exhaustion and can occur in individuals with a normal body temperature. Heat syncope is a non-life threatening, fainting related to a spontaneous drop in blood pressure as a result of being in the upright position in a hot environment. Individuals afflicted with this condition, which will pass in a matter of a few minutes, should be seated, given cool sips of water, and treated by applying cool compresses to the neck, armpits and groin area. This condition can occur in association with or be a precursor to heat exhaustion.
Heat edema refers to the swelling of the hands and feet associated with heat exposure.
In most cases this condition results from a lack of acclimatization and can be remedied by elevation of the swollen extremity and application of ice to the affected area. Heat exhaustion can occur even in properly acclimatized and hydrated individuals with increased heat exposure associated with physical exertion. Other signs can include headache, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and loss of coordination. Recovery from heat exhaustion normally takes at least 48 hours. Prompt treatment of heat exhaustion is imperative to prevent progression to heat stroke.