Leg Cramping
If you are in Danville, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, or anywhere in Northern California, the specialists at BASS Vein Center can help identify what’s causing your leg cramps and determine whether vein disease or another condition may be contributing to your symptoms.
What Are Leg Cramps?
Leg cramps are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can be painful and disruptive—especially when they occur at night. While many cramps are harmless and temporary, persistent cramping may be a sign of an underlying medical or vascular issue that requires evaluation.
Common Causes of Leg Cramps
Leg cramps can develop for many reasons, and in some cases, the exact cause is unknown. Often, the cramp is linked to:
- Muscle fatigue
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalances (low potassium, magnesium, or calcium)
- Exercising in hot weather
- Overusing the calf and thigh muscles
- Activities such as running, cycling, weight training, or sports involving frequent sprinting
Even healthy individuals can experience cramps, especially after intense activity or periods of prolonged sitting.
Medical Conditions That Can Cause Leg Cramps
Some health issues can make leg cramping more frequent or severe. These include:
- Pregnancy
- Kidney failure
- Addison’s disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Alcohol overuse
- Cirrhosis
- Vascular disease
- Sarcoidosis
If you have one of these conditions and experience worsening cramps, it is important to be evaluated.
Medications That May Trigger Leg Cramps
Certain medications list cramping as a known side effect:
- Diuretics
- Birth control pills
- Naproxen
- Albuterol
- Statins
- Gabapentin
- Zolpidem
- Clonazepam
If cramping began after starting a medication, your provider may adjust your treatment plan.
Idiopathic vs. Secondary Leg Cramps
Some leg cramps have no identifiable cause (idiopathic). Others are linked to underlying issues (secondary). Potential triggers may include:
- Stress or anxiety
- Excessive high-intensity exercise
- Reduced blood flow to the legs
- Nerve irritation or involuntary nerve firings
Why Do Leg Cramps Happen at Night?
Nocturnal leg cramps—commonly called "night cramps"—happen when the legs are resting. They can wake you abruptly and leave lingering soreness.
Nighttime leg cramps are more common in:
- Adults over age 50
- Pregnant women
- Individuals who sit or stand for long periods
- Those who work on hard surfaces (like concrete)
Possible triggers include:
- Sitting for prolonged periods
- Standing on hard flooring
- Sitting in improper positions
- Overusing leg muscles during the day
Could Leg Cramps Be a Sign of a Vein Problem?
Yes—especially when cramps occur at night.
Cramping can be associated with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition where weakened valves in the leg veins cause blood to pool in the lower legs.
Symptoms of CVI include:
- Leg cramps or muscle spasms
- Leg swelling
- Heaviness or tightness
- Itching or tingling
- Varicose veins
- Skin discoloration near the ankles
- Restlessness or urge to move the legs
If your nighttime cramps are persistent, vein testing may help determine whether circulation is a factor.
Get Help With Leg Cramps and Circulation Issues
If you live in Concord, Alameda, Berkeley, or anywhere in Northern California, BASS Vein Center is here to help determine why you are experiencing leg cramps and whether vein disease may be involved.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and learn more about effective treatment options.