Menopausal Leg Symptoms

Menopause occurs after the cessation of menses for a full year. While menopause affects women differently, some common side effects include irregular sleep, hot flashes, mood swings and leg cramps. Leg pain during menopause is painful though not ultimately dangerous.

Time Frame

Leg cramps often appear suddenly and without warning. The pain can be sharp and immediate or may linger in the area for up to 24 hours.

Effects

Menopausal leg cramps prevent you from getting a full night's rest.

Location

Some medications may induce greater leg cramping symptoms as part of their side effects. Communicate significant leg cramping to your doctor. Typically, leg craps occur in the calves but they can also flare up in the foot or ankle.

Age

Older women going through menopause are more prone to leg cramps. Other conditions that contribute to leg cramping symptoms include a lack of physical exercise, poor diet and poor blood circulation.

Treatment

Stretching the affected area helps alleviate pain. St. John's wort and calcium supplements can prevent the occurrence of menopausal leg pain.

Duration

Menopausal leg cramps should cease after the completion of menopause. This time frame is different for every woman.

References

• Leg Cramps and Menopause