Leg cramps
Overview
Leg cramps are common, usually harmless, and only last a short time. They can happen at any time, but most people have them at night or when resting.
Symptoms
Leg cramps happen when a muscle in the leg tightens and causes a sudden pain that can make it hard to move. The cramps can last from a few seconds to 10 minutes. They can affect the: calf muscle, below the knee at the back of the legmuscles in the feet or the thighs (less often) After the cramp has stopped, the muscle might feel sore for up to 24 hours.
Causes
Leg cramps can sometimes be caused by: ageingputting too much strain on muscles during exercise, which can be worse in hot or humid weatherpregnancy (usually in the later stage)certain medicines – for example, medicine for lowering cholesterol (statins) or high blood pressure (diuretics)not drinking enough fluids (dehydration)liver disease because of drinking too much alcohol The reason for some cramps is unknown.
Treatment
A GP will examine you to try to find out the reason for your leg cramps. They will suggest a treatment depending on the cause. This might be: stretching exercisesquinine tablets if exercise has not helped Quinine is not suitable for everyone. The GP will discuss potential risks and side effects with you.
Prevention
Regular calf-stretching exercises may help to reduce cramps but may not completely stop them from happening.