What are Leg Cramps a Sign of?

Painful leg cramps are something that most people have experienced at least once in their lives. They are caused by the repeated contraction of the leg muscles. They frequently occur during our sleep or while we are exercising, dancing or playing sports. Many people often ignore them once they are relieved. However, there are many diseases and conditions that can be the root cause of this painful condition.

Dehydration

Dehydration can really take a toll on your body. Loss of fluid and the drying up of the body's cells causes severe leg cramps. This usually occurs in the summertime, when it is hot and people are frequently sweating. Drinking lots of water and re-hydrating yourself is very important. Keeping your body hydrated and drinking cold water can also keep your body cooler. More seriously, leg cramps can be a warning sign of heat stroke, which can be deadly if not treated.

Diabetes

Leg cramps commonly plague diabetic patients. Many diabetics report waking up in the night with excruciating leg cramps. These leg cramps can be caused by diabetic neuropathy. This means that the nerves have been damaged by the disease of diabetes. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse reports that 60 to 70 percent of people suffer from some form of neuropathy. There are various treatments for leg cramps caused by neuropathy such as using muscle relaxants or pain medication or trying to control the blood sugar levels. Although, the leg cramps can be controlled, the cramps will never fully disappear.

Addison's Disease

Addison's disease is caused by a malfunction in the adrenal gland. The National Library of Medicine reports that this can be caused by contracting tuberculosis, HIV or fungal infections. It can also be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the adrenal gland. Night time leg cramps are a classic sign of Addison's disease. They are also a sign that the Addison's disease has worsened and that the patient has entered a state referred to as Addisonian Crisis. This stage can occur quickly and you should seek immediate medical assistance.

Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is a condition caused by the gradual decline of the liver to function. This can be caused by a physical injury, from alcoholism or disease. Leg cramps are a common problem in patients with liver cirrhosis. The University of Louisville Medical School reports that the cause is basically due to a reduction in the amounts of minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc) in the body. Often times, the leg cramps can be controlled by simply increasing your intake (through supplements) of these minerals.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid is underactive. The thyroid makes a hormone called thyroxine. If the thyroid is unable to make enough of this hormone, then the person will start to have many symptoms. One of these symptoms is severe leg cramps. In these cases, seeking help from a physician is necessary because you need to be put on medication such as synthroid to bring the levels of thyroxine back up to a normal level.

References

• University of Louisville; General Recommendations for Patients with Liver Cirrhosis; 2009;
• The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse; Diabetic Neuropathies: The Nerve Damage of Diabetes; 2009;
• National Library of Medicine; Addison's Disease; 2009;