A 62-year-old member asked:
What causes leg cramps in the middle of the night, and what can i do to prevent them?
3 doctor answers • 12 doctors weighed in
Dr. Carlo Hatemanswered
Pulmonary Critical Care 27 years experience
Many possibilities: Restless leg syndrome usually causes such symptoms in the evening and bedtime. Poor circulation has to be considered. Certain medications, low potassium levels, other conditions as well should be considered. Talk to your internist or sleep physician.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Tarek Naguibanswered
Nephrology and Dialysis 42 years experience
Many reasons: Exertion, standing on feet for long hours, medications like water pills, dehydration like in sports, and electrolyte changes in the blood e.g. Sodium and potassium could be the cause. If you do not have recent blood work within several months, you need one. Check with your doctor and make sure you report activity level, medications. A pickle at bedtime works.Don't use if have CHF or swelling of leg.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctoranswered
42 years experience
Could be veins: Venous insufficiency and varicose veins is a very common cause of leg cramps. If you have trouble with leg cramps and have veins you can see in your legs, i would recommend seeing a phlebologist (vein specialist).
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 39-year-old member asked:
What are the causes of leg cramps and how can you prevent/cure them?
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Payam Rafatanswered
Podiatry 24 years experience
Many causes: Common causes of cramping include rigorous exercise, side effects to certain prescription medications, and calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin d deficiency.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 17, 2019
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