Nocturnal leg cramps
What is Nocturnal leg cramps?
A cramp is a sudden, severe, and involuntary muscle contraction or over-shortening; while generally temporary and non-damaging, they can cause mild-to-excruciating pain, and a paralysis-like immobility of the affected muscle(s). Onset is usually sudden, and it resolves on its own over a period of several seconds, minutes, or hours. Cramps may occur in a skeletal muscle or smooth muscle. Skeletal muscle cramps may be caused by any combination of muscle fatigue, a lack of electrolytes (e.g., low sodium, low potassium, or low magnesium). Cramps of smooth muscle may be due to menstruation or gastroenteritis.
Questions and answers on "Nocturnal leg cramps"
Recent questions on Nocturnal leg cramps
Related Disease & Conditions
Related Drugs/Medications
Related Treatment/Therapy
Related Lab Tests
Related Procedures
Related Medical Topics