Muscle cramps
Muscle cramps
By Dr. Kanthimathi
Muscle cramp is a sudden involuntary contraction of one or more muscles.
It is mostly harmless and usually
disappears on its own after a few seconds or a minute. When the pain is serious and prolonged you may need doctor's consultation.
Causes: (in many cases, cause is not known)
Known causes are:
-Dehydration
-Muscle strain
-Overuse of muscles
-Holding a position for a long period
-Mineral depletion (potassium, calcium and magnesium )
-Inadequate blood supply due to narrowing of arteries
-Nerve compression
-Medical conditions like diabetes,
-thyroid and liver disorders
-Diuretics medication
-Pregnancy
Prevention:
-Avoid dehydration
-Muscle stretching before and after doing exercises , and before going to sleep