Leg cramps while sleeping, also called nocturnal leg cramps, mostly affect the muscles of the calf, although they can occur in any of the muscles of the leg and may also spread down to the feet. These cramps typically wake the sleeper and can cause excruciating pain along with a stiffening or hardening of the muscle that can be felt when the muscle is touched. Nocturnal leg cramps can last up to 10 minutes, although soreness can linger after the cramp has eased. Both genders and individuals of all ages can get leg cramps while sleeping, although older individuals are more at risk.
Diseases
Some specific diseases have been linked to leg cramps while sleeping, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Type 2 diabetics, for example, may be prone to developing leg cramps. Individuals with hypothyroidism, Parkinson's disease, peripheral artery disease and Addison's disease may also be affected. Individuals with the liver disease cirrhosis and with chronic kidney failure sometimes have nocturnal leg cramps as a symptom of these disorders.
Drugs
Women on oral contraceptives sometimes experience nocturnal leg cramps as a side effect of their medication. Diuretics and some blood pressure medications may also induce leg cramps in some people. People who abuse alcohol may also experience night leg cramps.
Physical Activity
Certain types of physical activity can cause leg cramps that occur or get worse during the night. Individuals who spend a large portion of the day sitting and who have poor posture when sitting may experience these types of cramps. People who spend a lot of time standing on hard surfaces such as concrete floors may also develop leg cramps while sleeping. Individuals who frequently overexert their muscles, participating in amateur sports, for example, are also at risk.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women often experience nighttime leg cramps, explains Baby Center. While the exact cause of pregnancy leg cramps is unknown, they may be due to hormonal fluctuations or changes in weight and balance that pregnant women experience. Leg cramps during sleep that occur during pregnancy typically begin during the second trimester and continue throughout the pregnancy. After birth, the problem generally ceases.
Other Causes
Dehydration has been linked to cramps in the leg during sleep and remaining hydrated is a frequent recommendation for preventing these types of cramps. People with an electrolyte imbalance, especially a lack of sodium in the body, and those who have had gastric bypass surgery also frequently develop nocturnal leg cramps. People with flat feet are also more prone to leg cramps at night. In many circumstances, the cause of nocturnal leg cramps can't be determined and other reasons for these cramps may yet be discovered.
