People coming from cooler climates, or changing from air-conditioned indoor to hot outdoor assignments, must acclimate to hot temperatures. Usually, acclimatization takes two weeks and is accomplished by gradually increasing exposures to hot weather over that time period. However, extensive exposure to air-conditioned homes and offices can slow or prevent the acclimatization process. The transition from air-conditioned spaces to field conditions can also be dramatic. The importance of proper acclimatization and good hydration practices is critical to our health.
Heat cramps are painful spasms of the muscles caused by excessive loss of salt from the body.
Because water and salt loss cause dehydration and reduce efficiency long before any obvious sign of heat illness, ensuring an adequate intake of water is essential. However, the amount of water the body requires depends on the amount of sweating that occurs, and that varies from one individual to another. If cramps persist, dissolve a quarter teaspoon of table salt in one quart of water, and drink it slowly. Excessive salt depletion and dehydration can cause heat exhaustion. Symptoms are profuse sweating, headache, a tingling sensation in the extremities, weakness, loss of appetite, dizziness, nausea, cramps, chills and rapid breathing.