If you often get leg cramps at night
Nighttime leg cramps are common and usually harmless, but frequent cramps can sometimes be related to medications, dehydration, or an underlying health problem. (nhs.uk
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Possible contributors include:
Dehydration
Overworked or fatigued muscles, especially after exercise
Getting older
Certain medicines, including some diuretics and statins
Pregnancy
Some circulation, nerve, metabolic, or liver conditions (nhs.uk
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What to do when a cramp happens
Gently stretch and massage the affected muscle. For a calf cramp, straighten your leg and pull your toes toward you. Standing and putting weight on the affected leg may also help. (nhs.uk
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Regular calf stretching—particularly before bed—may help reduce how often cramps occur. (nhs.uk
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When not to ignore it
Talk to a healthcare professional if cramps regularly disturb your sleep, last longer than 10 minutes, or occur with leg swelling, numbness, or weakness. (nhs.uk
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If one leg suddenly becomes swollen, painful, warm, or changes color, that’s different from an ordinary cramp and can be a sign of a blood clot (DVT). Seek urgent medical assessment; chest pain or shortness of breath alongside these symptoms requires emergency care. (nhs.uk
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Don’t automatically assume you need magnesium or another supplement. The cause of recurrent cramps should be considered first.
