Cramps are contractions of the muscles that are beyond control. Involuntary contractions that occurs in the quadriceps, calves and hamstring and areas of the legs will cause night or nocturnal leg cramps. It can be very painful and uncomfortable which occurs for a few minutes or on and off throughout the night. The condition can be caused by restless leg syndrome, fatigue, pregnancy, side effects of a prescribed drug, electrolyte imbalance, overweight and dehydration.
Causes of leg cramps
- Cramps in the leg can occur if the individual has a very low blood sugar level
- Dehydration can also cause leg cramps while sleeping
- Overexertion and profuse sweating
- Low level of potassium in the body caused by using diuretics.
- People taking medications for blood pressure particularly channel blockers can lead to leg cramps while sleeping.
- Leg cramps can occur due to certain vitamin deficiencies.
Treatment and home remedies
You can utilize the following treatment options to manage the leg cramps. If you want to learn more about these measures, read here.
- The individual should get enough water during the day by drinking at least 8 oz. glass of water every three hours until bedtime so that toxins can be flushed out from the muscles.
- The individual can use horse chestnut which is an herb that is good for treating insufficient flow of blood to the veins in the legs. Just remember to consult a doctor first if herbs are used.
- Encourage the individual to take a soothing soak in a hot bath before going to bed in order to help calm down the leg muscles as well as helping the individual fall asleep. For an increased relief, you can add mineral salts to the water.
- Apply a heat compress over the affected area or place a heating pad on the area for a few minutes to relax the muscles. Avoid leaving the heating pad on the affected area too long since it can result to burns. If a heating pad is not available, soak a wash cloth in warm water, wring out the excess and apply over the cramp.
- Drink a cup of Valerian tea before going to bed in order to relax the muscle and minimize the occurrence of leg cramps.
- Take calcium-magnesium supplement at bedtime since deficiencies of these vitamins can lead to the development of leg cramps.
Other remedies
- Eat foods that are rich in potassium and calcium content such as bananas and fish. Other good sources of potassium include green leafy vegetables while calcium can be taken from broccoli.
- Eat fruits that have plenty of water content such as watermelon and pineapple.
- Take Vitamin E and Vitamin B-complex supplements
- Avoid consumption of alcohol and caffeine
- Encourage the individual to perform stretching exercises to promote proper circulation in the legs
- Wear shoes that have good support to the feet and ankles
- Perform regular physical activities such as a morning walk, massage, hot baths, yoga and meditation.
FACT CHECK
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/muscle-cramp/symptoms-causes/syc-20350820
https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/za1086
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/muscle-bone-and-joints/conditions/leg-cramps