Muscle cramps are common and often occur at night when people try to relax after a long day of work or exercise.
According to Delaware Integrative Healthcare, strained muscles may be more vulnerable to cramps when they’re at rest.
Activities such as working out too hard, stretching too much, misalignment of the body, vitamin B12 deficiency, herniated discs, dehydration, alcohol use disorder, renal disease, and hypothyroidism can all cause muscle cramps.
Muscle cramps are not only common in athletes but also occur frequently in non-athletes due to heavy sweating or dehydration caused by caffeine consumption. As people age, the risk of experiencing nighttime muscle cramps increases.
Certain medications such as those for high blood pressure, heart disease, and cholesterol increase this risk even further.
To reduce the occurrence of muscle cramps at night, individuals can take measures such as talking to their doctor or pharmacist if they suspect medication is causing the issue, staying adequately hydrated throughout the day, avoiding drinking water before bedtime, taking a warm bath in Epsom salt, and incorporating self-massage or stretching programs before bedtime.
In conclusion, muscle cramps are common and can occur at night due to various factors such as strained muscles, dehydration, medications, and age.
While occasional cramps may not be a cause for concern, taking proactive measures to reduce their frequency can help individuals enjoy more restful sleep.
