Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Which of these statements is true regarding heat cramps?

1. They occur with a fever.

2. They are caused by dehydration.

3. They are due to lactic acid accumulation.

4. They can lead to heatstroke.

The correct answer is: They are due to lactic acid accumulation.

Heat cramps are muscle spasms that often occur during physical exertion in hot environments and are closely associated with electrolyte imbalances, particularly due to dehydration. When the body loses significant fluids through sweating without adequate replacement, it can lead to a deficiency of important electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium. The accumulation of lactic acid is typically associated with muscle fatigue and more intense muscle exertion, but in the context of heat cramps, the primary underlying cause relates more to electrolyte loss than lactic acid buildup. Therefore, while lactic acid may contribute to muscle fatigue, it is not the direct cause of heat cramps. Heat cramps can progress to more serious heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke if not addressed appropriately, but they do not inherently lead to heatstroke. The statement regarding fever is usually not applicable to heat cramps, as they are specific to the body's response to dehydration and lack of electrolytes, rather than an increase in body temperature due to an infection or illness. Given these factors, the nuances of dehydration during heat exposure make the association between heat cramps and electrolyte imbalance more prominent than the correct answer suggests. This highlights the importance of maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte levels during physical activities in high temperatures.