Who Is Most at Risk of Night Cramps?

Night cramps (especially leg cramps during sleep) are common and can happen to anyone, but some people have a higher chance of experiencing them.

People more likely to get nighttime cramps include:

1. Older adults
   • Night leg cramps become more common with age due to changes in muscles, nerves, and circulation.
2. People who are physically active or overuse their muscles
   • Heavy exercise, long periods of standing, or unfamiliar activity can trigger cramps.
3. People who are dehydrated
   • Not drinking enough fluids, especially with sweating or hot weather, may increase the risk.
4. Pregnant people
   • Leg cramps are more common during pregnancy, especially later stages.
5. People with certain medical conditions
   • Conditions affecting nerves, circulation, muscles, or metabolism may contribute, including:
     • Diabetes-related nerve problems.
     • Kidney disease.
     • Thyroid disorders.
     • Peripheral artery disease.
6. People taking certain medications
   • Some medicines, including certain diuretics (“water pills”) and others, may be linked with cramps in some people.
7. People with tight or shortened muscles
   • Limited flexibility, especially in the calf muscles, may make cramps more likely.

Ways to reduce the chance of cramps:

• Stay well hydrated.
• Stretch calf and leg muscles gently before bed.
• Stay physically active with regular, moderate exercise.
• Avoid suddenly increasing exercise intensity.
• Review medications with a healthcare professional if cramps begin after starting a new medicine.

See a healthcare professional if cramps are frequent, severe, causing weakness, associated with swelling or numbness, or regularly disturbing sleep, especially if you have an underlying health condition.