Leg pain at night can be a common and frustrating issue that can prevent you from falling asleep easily. There are several potential causes of leg pain at night, including:
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Dehydration: Dehydration is often associated with muscle cramps, including nocturnal leg cramps.
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Restlessness: Restlessness and turning over in bed can trigger muscle cramps, causing them to cramp.
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Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): PAD is a circulatory disease that can cause leg pain and cramping that impact your ability to walk or climb stairs. It can also increase your risk for dangerous health issues like heart attack, stroke, and limb amputation.
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Certain medications: Medications such as diuretics, steroids, and antidepressants are associated with nighttime leg pain and cramping.
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Alcohol consumption: Some people experience pain in their legs after consuming alcohol. In some cases, it may be linked to problematic drinking or excessive drinking.
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Age: Nighttime leg pain and restless leg syndrome are more common for older adults. People over 60 are prone to leg cramps that occur once a month or more frequently.
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Injury: You may experience pain and inflammation in your muscles and tendons during the night as these muscles are healing while you sleep, especially if you have an injury.
If you continue to experience leg pain at night, it is important to seek the advice of a medical professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.