What to do when experiencing muscle cramps while swimming?

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The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday issued several tips on how to deal with muscle cramps while swimming as people go on vacation this summer season. 

Cramps are usually caused by repetitive and excessive movements while on water, DOH began.

So what do you do when your muscles suddenly feel a painful spasm? 

1. Calm down and try to float on your back. 
2. Regulate your breathing. Inhale and exhale your breathing. 
3. Try to stretch the affected part of your body. 
4. Ask for help. 
5. Hydrate after getting out of the water. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, muscle cramps are common when exercising or working hard under the heat. That's why hydration is needed to make our muscles work well. 

Stretching before and after activities will also help in preventing muscle cramps. 

Forecast by the state weather bureau PAGASA suggested that 43°C of heat, which is under the “danger” category, may be experienced in Echague, Isabela and in Cavite City, Cavite on Friday. 

Aside from drinking plenty of water, the DOH advised the public to use umbrellas or caps when outside, and to wear light clothes that are also light colored to repel the excessive heat of the sun. 

— Vince Angelo Ferreras/LA, GMA Integrated News