PADDLERsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Heat cramps are caused by dehydration. If you don’t drink enough water during the paddle trip, your body will fail to replenish fluids that you lost from sweating. A long, strenuous paddle trip can result in this particular heat-related illness.

Symptoms: Profuse sweating, dizziness and severe muscle cramps, which occur primarily in the legs, arms, and abdomen.  

How to Treat Heat Cramps:

• Move the victim to a cool, shady area.
• HYDRATE! Fluids with electrolytes and sodium are the best option.
• To prevent heat cramps, take frequent breaks and remember to stretch after a long paddle trip.