WHEN DOES IT OCCUR?
Multiple factors may contribute to the development of this condition:
• prolonged walking, particularly in mountains or on rough terrain,
• relatively high temperatures,
• it is also more common amongst women
Prolonged exercise involves significant energy expenditure, elevated muscle temperature (up to 41°), vasodilation, an accumulation of lactic acid, increased blood viscosity, inflammation, and muscle and skin injuries. These factors can result in microcirculatory deficiency.
It can also affect hikers with no prior medical history. Once you've suffered one episode, you are more susceptible to further relapses.