If leg cramps are disrupting your sleep, you’re not alone. As many as 6 in 10 adults experience leg cramps at night.
These painful, involuntary muscle contractions can feel overwhelming, especially when they happen regularly. At Region Vein in Munster, IN, board-certified vascular and lymphatic medicine specialist Dr. Demetrios J. Karamichos leads a team of skilled professionals, including ultrasound technologists and medical assistants, to provide expert care for vein disease.
Leg cramps, particularly those at night, may signal an underlying issue like vein problems.
Why Do Leg Cramps Happen at Night?
Nighttime leg cramps may happen for many reasons, but vascular disease is one of the most common. Vascular disease, such as varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, and venous insufficiency, can put extra pressure on your leg muscles or deprive them of the oxygen and nutrients they need, leading to leg cramps.
Some other possible causes of leg cramps at night are:
- Dehydration: Insufficient hydration can cause muscle cells to become irritable.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Low potassium, magnesium, or calcium levels can trigger cramps.
- Overuse or Lack of Use: Muscle fatigue from overworking or sitting too long can lead to cramping.
If your cramps are frequent and severe, it’s important to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. In the office, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostics, such as vascular ultrasounds, to get to the bottom of your discomfort.
How to Reduce Nighttime Leg Cramps
Dr. Karamichos and our team recommend starting with simple lifestyle adjustments. For example:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Stretch Regularly: Gentle stretching before bed can relax muscles.
- Improve Your Diet: Incorporate foods rich in potassium and magnesium.
- Wear Compression Stockings: These can improve blood flow and reduce cramping.
Dr. Karamichos may recommend an advanced vein treatment if these measures don’t provide relief.
Advanced Treatments For Nighttime Leg Cramps
At Region Vein, we offer a full spectrum of noninvasive and minimally invasive solutions for vascular disease conveniently in our Munster office. Some of the effective strategies to treat vascular disease include ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, and Varithena®. Dr. Karamichos customizes a vascular disease treatment plan to relieve your leg cramps and other symptoms for the long term.
Help With Leg Cramps in Munster, IN
Don’t let nighttime leg cramps disrupt your life any longer. Call Region Vein at 219-595-3095 to schedule an appointment in Munster, IN, and take the first step toward relief.
