Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Severe Cramps In The Leg?
Question: 2 nights ago I awoke with a cramp in my right leg severe enough that I couldn't go back to sleep - no matter what position I tried the pain was still there. A couple of hours after I got up and started the days activities the pain gradually diminished and finally almost disappeared, same thing happened again last night - I only got about 2 hours sleep, and again today the pain is starting to diminish. Pain is in upper right leg and extends to lower right leg - feels like a cramp.
Brief Answer:
Causes may be several.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.
I have read your question and understand your concerns.
Nighttime muscle cramps may be caused by several conditions that range from overuse of muscles when you are awake, dehydration, low electrolytes levels in blood, to conditions such peripheral artery disease and kidneys dysfunction.
Side effects of drugs ( such diuretics, statins, steroids ) also may be the culprit.
Things you can do to prevent and ease muscles cramps include being well hydrated, taking hot bath before sleep, stretching and massage, use of heating pads, use of painkillers such ibuprofen.
If cramps continue, you should discuss with your primary care Doctor about blood tests to measure electrolytes levels, kidney function, Doppler ultrasound of legs to evaluate blood circulation and if you use any drugs, the possibility that this may be the culprit.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Greetings.
Causes may be several.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.
I have read your question and understand your concerns.
Nighttime muscle cramps may be caused by several conditions that range from overuse of muscles when you are awake, dehydration, low electrolytes levels in blood, to conditions such peripheral artery disease and kidneys dysfunction.
Side effects of drugs ( such diuretics, statins, steroids ) also may be the culprit.
Things you can do to prevent and ease muscles cramps include being well hydrated, taking hot bath before sleep, stretching and massage, use of heating pads, use of painkillers such ibuprofen.
If cramps continue, you should discuss with your primary care Doctor about blood tests to measure electrolytes levels, kidney function, Doppler ultrasound of legs to evaluate blood circulation and if you use any drugs, the possibility that this may be the culprit.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Greetings.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
