A person suffering from heat cramping experiences painful muscle spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs following strenuous activity. These are both warning signs of worse things to come. These individuals should be taken to a cool, shaded area and carefully be given fluids by mouth or an IV, if needed. A person in this condition should never be given drinks containing caffeine or alcohol because they are very dehydrating. Moderate cooling measures such as sponging off or bathing in cool water are appropriate.
Heat stroke is similar to exhaustion, but much more severe because it can be fatal .
In this case, the body temperature rises higher than 104 degrees, but the person may not even sweat. Instead, more serious neurological problems are taking place such as disorientation, loss of consciousness and seizures. These individuals need immediate medical attention in a hospital setting. Exercise and strenuous activity on hot, humid days requires lots of fluids. Drink more than you think you need.