If you mean nighttime leg cramps, some people are more likely to experience them than others.
Who is most at risk?
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Older adults, especially people over 60.
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Pregnant women, particularly during later pregnancy.
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People who exercise intensely or overwork their leg muscles.
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People who stand or sit for long periods.
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Those who don’t drink enough fluids or have fluid/electrolyte imbalances.
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People with certain conditions, including diabetes, kidney disease, nerve problems, or circulation disorders.
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People taking certain medications, including some diuretics and cholesterol-lowering medicines.
One important misconception
Night cramps aren’t always caused by low potassium or magnesium. Taking supplements without knowing the cause isn’t necessarily helpful and can sometimes be harmful.
If cramps are new, frequent, very painful, or accompanied by swelling, weakness, numbness, or persistent leg pain, it’s a good idea to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional.
