Heat related injury Heat related injury includes heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat syncope. Heat exhaustion is caused by excessive exposure to heat and the depletion of body fluids. Victims sweat profusely and may shiver and have goose bumps. Weakness, nausea, dizziness, headache, poor judgment, rapid pulse, and a normal or slightly elevated body temperature are present.
Heat cramps occur in healthy individuals during or following strenuous physical activity.
Muscles, oftentimes those in the calf, cramp and produce severe pain. Fainting from the heat is referred to as heat syncope. Treatment for heat related injuries includes rest in a cool, shaded environment, along with fluid replacement. Cramped muscles should be stretched or massaged.