Don’t Ignore Leg Cramps at Night
Nighttime leg cramps are very common, especially as people get older, and most are harmless. They usually involve a sudden, painful tightening of the calf, foot, or thigh that lasts from a few seconds to several minutes.
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Mayo Clinic
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What can cause them?
Sometimes there is no identifiable cause. Possible contributors include:
Dehydration
Muscle fatigue or prolonged sitting
Reduced physical activity
Certain medicines, including some diuretics and cholesterol medicines
Diabetes or nerve problems
Kidney or thyroid disorders
Problems with blood flow to the legs
Pregnancy or other metabolic conditions
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Mayo Clinic
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What to do when a cramp strikes
Stretch the cramped muscle gently. For a calf cramp, straighten the leg and pull the toes toward your face.
Stand and put weight on the affected leg if you’re able to do so safely.
Gently massage the muscle.
A warm shower or bath may help relax the muscle; cold may also reduce soreness afterward.
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Mayo Clinic
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How to reduce nighttime cramps
Regular calf stretching, particularly before bed, may help. Staying adequately hydrated and maintaining reasonable physical activity can also be useful.
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nhs.uk
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Don’t automatically assume that you need magnesium or potassium supplements. Taking extra minerals isn’t appropriate for everyone, and the underlying cause should be considered first.
When should you see a doctor?
Talk with a healthcare professional if cramps regularly disturb your sleep, last more than about 10 minutes, keep returning despite self-care, or occur with numbness, swelling, weakness, or persistent pain.
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nhs.uk
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One-sided leg swelling, redness, warmth, or significant pain deserves prompt medical evaluation, because those symptoms can have causes other than an ordinary muscle cramp.
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