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Heat cramps occur primarily due to a water-sodium imbalance in the body that arises during strenuous physical activity, especially in hot and humid conditions. When an individual exerts themselves, they lose both water and electrolytes through sweating. The loss of sodium, in particular, can disrupt the balance of electrolytes, leading to muscle contractions and cramps.

While hyperthermia can contribute to the occurrence of heat cramps by raising body temperature and increasing sweating, it is not the direct cause of cramps. Similarly, water loss alone can lead to dehydration, but it does not specifically explain the reason for muscle cramps, as both sodium and water must be considered in conjunction.

Sodium gain is irrelevant in the context of heat cramps since the condition arises from a deficit rather than an excess. Therefore, the correct identification of heat cramps as resulting from a water-sodium imbalance highlights the importance of maintaining electrolyte balance during intense activity in hot conditions to prevent muscle cramping.