Skip to main content

When to See a Doctor About Leg Cramps

When to See a Doctor About Leg Cramps

As many as 60% of American adults know the sensation of being jolted awake by the pain of a spasming calf muscle. Though leg cramps typically don’t last very long, you’re temporarily unable to use the cramped muscle and, of course, your sleep is disrupted. 

Though the process behind leg cramps isn’t fully understood, in most cases the experience is harmless. Sometimes though, leg cramps can be severe or frequent enough to disrupt your life, or they’re associated with other symptoms that could indicate a more serious problem. 

Venous insufficiency is often overlooked as the reason behind leg cramps. Choosing Dr. Clement Banda and the team at MD Vein and Skin Specialists to investigate your cramps may provide insight into your condition as well as treatment options to break the cramping cycle. 

Understanding muscle cramps

Virtually any muscle in your body has the ability to cramp, but the phenomenon is usually experienced in leg muscles and most often in the calf, and overuse and dehydration are frequent contributors.

Certain medications can also deplete minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that are crucial for cramp prevention. Nerve issues related to conditions such as diabetes, liver disorders, or spinal problems can also be a risk factor for leg cramps. Your thyroid gland could also be responsible.  

However, the factor with the greatest potential for harm is problems with blood flow. Poor blood return to the heart from the legs through veins can cause significant leg cramps. This is most pronounced at night when the leg muscles are least active. Whereas the heart pumps blood away to body parts, leg muscles help pump blood back to the heart from the legs. When these muscles are least active (sleeping) the leg muscle pump is very inefficient. Cramping can be looked at as the body’s own defense mechanism to get the blood moving again. Hence the relief of cramps when one gets out of bed and walks around a bit.

When to see a doctor about leg cramps

Occasional leg cramps are rarely cause for concern, particularly when they follow periods of heavy use or exertion. Cramping during exercise that improves when you stop, however, could be a sign of narrowing of the arteries (an even more ominous problem). Cramping from vein disease tends to improve with exercise and activity. Cramping of this type is a strong sign you should visit Dr. Banda for an examination. 

If you notice the intensity and/or frequency of your leg cramps increasing, this too could be a sign it’s time for a doctor visit. Schedule an appointment if your cramps are consistent and accompanied by certain other symptoms including: 

When cramps disturb your sleep enough so that daytime fatigue becomes an issue, you may need medical attention to restore your rest and recovery time. 

Self-care to reduce cramping typically includes stretching and increased attention to hydration. Try leg stretches before activity or before bedtime to prevent cramps. Increasing your water intake may also help. 

When these measures fail to produce results, contact MD Vein and Skin Specialists for an examination and diagnosis. Dr. Banda may be able to recommend additional measures, including vein treatments that can revitalize blood flow through your legs. Call the office directly, or request an appointment online today to stop leg cramps in their tracks. 

You Might Also Enjoy...

Is It Possible to Avoid Skin Cancer?

Is It Possible to Avoid Skin Cancer?

It may not be possible to avoid all skin cancers completely. Some cancerous lesions appear without an obvious reason. However, you can do much to reduce the risk of preventable skin cancers. 

The Truth About Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declare clearly that most skin cancers result from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. While sunlight has health benefits, your risk of skin cancers skyrockets without protection from UV.
Here's How You Can Play a Role in Preventing Vein Disease

Here's How You Can Play a Role in Preventing Vein Disease

Your veins, tasked with returning blood to the heart and lungs, have a unique design that helps them work against gravity. Diseases of the veins can allow the pooling of blood, a condition that creates further problems, usually in your legs.
Lesser-Known Facts About Skin Cancer

Lesser-Known Facts About Skin Cancer

You may know that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting Americans and that melanoma is the most serious. However, you might not know there are many types of skin cancer, including those that happen without sun exposure.
Is That Mole Cancerous?

Is That Mole Cancerous?

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Melanoma is the most aggressive type, forming in skin pigment cells, such as those found in moles. While most moles are harmless, there are signs when cancer hits.
9 Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Varicose Veins

9 Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Varicose Veins

While varicose veins usually aren’t a sign of serious health issues, their dark, twisted, and gnarly appearance makes them a cosmetic issue that destroys the smooth skin tone on your legs. You can make changes to reduce your risk of this condition.