What causes long muscle cramps?
What causes long muscle cramps?
Overuse of a muscle, dehydration, muscle strain or simply holding a position for a prolonged period can cause a muscle cramp. In many cases, however, the cause isn’t known. Although most muscle cramps are harmless, some may be related to an underlying medical condition, such as: Inadequate blood supply.
How to tell if you have muscle cramps?
For muscle cramp, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: 1 What’s likely causing my cramps? 2 Are there other possible causes? 3 What tests do I need? 4 Is my condition temporary or chronic? 5 What’s the best course of action? 6 What alternatives are there to the approach you’re suggesting? More …
When do you get cramps in your legs?
Muscle cramps are when a muscle gets tight (contracts) without you trying to tighten it, and it does not relax. Cramps may involve all or part of one or more muscles. The most commonly involved muscle groups are: Back of the lower leg/calf.
How long does it take for muscle cramps to go away?
A sudden, sharp pain, lasting from a few seconds to 15 minutes, is the most common symptom of a muscle cramp. In some cases, a bulging lump of muscle tissue beneath the skin can accompany a cramp as well. Muscle cramps have several causes. Some cramps result from overuse of your muscles.
Can a low blood supply cause muscle cramps?
Low blood supply to your legs and feet can cause cramping in those areas when you exercise, walk, or participate in physical activities. In some cases, a medical condition can cause muscle cramps. These conditions include: Other times, the cause of muscle cramps is unknown. Muscle cramps are usually harmless and don’t require medical attention.
When do you get muscle cramps how long do they last?
A muscle cramp happens when a muscle contracts suddenly and uncontrollably. These cramps, also called muscle spasms or charley horses, can occur in one or more muscles at a time. They can be painful, but they usually only last from a few seconds to 15 minutes. Muscle cramps can be a symptom of many different medical issues.
How can you tell if you have muscle cramps?
What are the symptoms of muscle spasms (muscle cramps)? Muscle spasms can feel like a stitch in the side or be agonizingly painful. You may see a twitch under your skin and it may feel hard to the touch. Spasms are involuntary. The muscles contract and it takes treatment and time for them to relax.
What can a doctor do for muscle cramps?
Your doctor can show you stretching exercises that can help you reduce your chances of getting muscle cramps. Making sure you stay well-hydrated also can help. For recurrent cramps that disturb your sleep, your doctor might prescribe a medication to relax your muscles.
Why do I get muscle cramps when I work out?
Long periods of exercise or physical labor, particularly in hot weather, can lead to muscle cramps. Some medications and certain medical conditions also may cause muscle cramps.