What causes leg cramps during sleep?
If the feet are not properly covered with a quilt during sleep at night, they are more prone to cramping. What causes this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Leg cramps during sleep are typically characterized by sudden, severe, and involuntary contractions of the leg muscles, causing pain and discomfort. Common causes include:
1. Overexertion: Excessive physical activity or walking during the day may overwork the leg muscles and ligaments, causing fatigue-related inflammation. This fatigue may manifest as leg cramps during nighttime rest.
2. Calcium deficiency: Low calcium levels are one of the common causes of leg cramps during sleep. Calcium ions play an important role in maintaining neuromuscular excitability. When blood calcium levels drop, neuromuscular excitability increases, potentially triggering muscle spasms, particularly cramps in the foot muscles.
3. Localized cold exposure: During sleep, inadequate foot warmth may cause localized cooling, which can impair blood circulation and stimulate the muscles with cold, resulting in contraction and subsequent cramping.
4. Electrolyte imbalance: Electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium are important for maintaining normal muscle function. When levels of these electrolytes become too low, muscle spasms may occur.
If discomfort persists, prompt medical attention is recommended.
