Night leg cramps are sudden, painful muscle contractions that can last seconds or minutes, and they usually occur during sleep. The exact cause of nocturnal leg cramps is unknown, but there are several factors that may increase the chance of experiencing them. Some of the most common causes of severe leg cramps at night include:

• Tired muscles: Most of the time, theres no known cause for night leg cramps. In general, theyre likely the result of tired muscles and nerve problems.

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can cause an electrolyte imbalance, which can lead to muscle cramps.

• Medications: Some medications, such as high blood pressure drugs, statins to treat high cholesterol, and drugs for osteoporosis, can cause leg cramps as a side effect.

• Pregnancy: Approximately 40% of people will experience leg cramps during pregnancy. Healthcare providers believe that’s because the extra weight of pregnancy strains your muscles.

• Neurological disorders: Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and peripheral neuropathy can raise your chances of leg cramps.

• Vascular disease: Nocturnal leg cramps are associated with vascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, and venous insufficiency.

Preventing leg cramps at night can be done by staying hydrated, stretching or massaging your legs before bed, and avoiding high-intensity exercise before bedtime. If you are experiencing frequent leg cramping, you should reach out to your doctor. They may be able to recommend lifestyle changes or prescribe medication to help alleviate the symptoms.