Effective Treatments For Leg Cramps

Get Evaluated for Underlying Conditions

If their leg cramps occur on a regular basis and don't appear connected to dehydration, excess physical activity, or too-long periods of rest, patients might need to get evaluated for an underlying condition. There are many conditions that can cause leg cramps. Some are mild, while others are more serious and possibly even life-threatening. Addison's disease, liver cirrhosis, alcohol abuse, hypothyroidism, type 2 diabetes, lead poisoning, vascular disease, sarcoidosis, Parkinson's disease, and peripheral artery disease have all been linked to leg cramps. Pregnancy also commonly causes leg and other muscle cramps. Some leg cramps might also be caused by gait issues due to naturally flat feet. They may occur as a side effect of cancer treatment, certain oral birth controls, or medications including teriparatide, raloxifene, naproxen, conjugated estrogens, and IV iron sucrose.