Which symptom is commonly associated with heat cramps?

Muscle spasms are a hallmark symptom of heat cramps, which occur due to a combination of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances during intense physical activity in hot weather. These cramps are typically characterized by painful, involuntary contractions of skeletal muscles, particularly in the legs and abdomen. Understanding this symptom is crucial for recognizing the onset of heat-related illnesses and taking appropriate measures to prevent further complications, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

The other symptoms listed, while related to heat-related illnesses in general, do not specifically define heat cramps. Nausea and vomiting can occur with heat exhaustion or heat stroke, severe headaches may be indicative of heat exhaustion, and an extremely high body temperature is more commonly associated with heat stroke rather than cramps. The distinctive nature of muscle spasms helps to differentiate heat cramps from other heat-related conditions.