Leg Cramps In Bed Causes

By: Lara Stewart

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you've been woken up by this painful affliction, you probably are curious about leg cramps in bed causes. While leg cramps hurt a lot and can do a number on your sleeping patterns, you'll be glad to know that they are not actually harmful. The leg cramps you get in bed at night when you go to bed can have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common ones.

  1. Many leg cramps experienced in bed are caused by metabolic problems. Diabetes, hypothyroidism, alcoholism, cirrhosis of the liver and Addison's disease can all cause painful leg cramps. If you think that you may have any of these disorders, talk to your doctor.
  2. Certain medications can trigger leg cramps in bed. The Pill, diuretics and blood pressure medications are all common suspects. Your doctor can tell you whether you can switch to a medication that does not cause leg cramps.
  3. It is also possible to get leg cramps because of vitamin deficiencies. Being low in B-vitamins like thiamine, B-6 or B-5 can all cause this painful condition. Make sure you eat a varied diet and consider a supplement if the leg cramps keep up.
  4. Circulatory problems like Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) are another cause of leg cramps. When you have PAD, your legs do not get enough blood flow, and cramps can result. Doctors recommend that you increase your exercise level, give up smoking, and maintain a healthy diet to treat PAD and get rid of those leg cramps in bed.
  5. Dehydration is another common cause of leg cramps in bed. You need the equivalent of six eight ounce glasses of water each day to stay fully hydrated. Try having a glass of water before bed if you are feeling thirsty at night or experiencing leg cramps.
Posted on: May. 31, 2011