6 questions about nocturnal muscle cramps

1 How do you recognize nocturnal muscle cramps?
– The sharp pain that accompanies the cramp.
– The site of the cramp; usually in the calf or in the foot.
– The moment when you get cramps, usually at night during sleep.

2 Is it hereditary?
No research has been done on the heredity of nocturnal muscle cramps. If your mother had it, it doesn’t mean you’ll get it, but you can. In practice, nocturnal muscle cramps seem to be common in some families, but there is no scientific evidence.

3 Does a bar of soap under the mattress help with nighttime muscle cramps?
The effectiveness of a bar of soap under the mattress has not been studied, but some people claim to benefit from it. It’s wiser triggers for nocturnal muscle cramps to avoid. If this does not work enough, you can consider taking a medicine to prevent the nocturnal muscle cramps.

4 Is there a connection between varicose veins and nocturnal muscle cramps?
Yes, there are studies linking the presence of varicose veins and nocturnal muscle cramps. Of the patients with varicose veins, 40 percent would have an attack of nocturnal muscle cramps more than three times a week.

5 Why is the difference between restless legs and nocturnal muscle cramps so important?
It is important that a correct diagnosis is made because drugs for nocturnal muscle cramps do not work for restless legs and restless legs remedies do not work for nighttime muscle cramps.

6 When should I go to the doctor?

• If you have general questions about nocturnal muscle cramps.
• If you are not sure whether you have nighttime muscle cramps.
• If you have done everything to get rid of the cramps but to no avail.
• If you regularly and severely suffer from nocturnal muscle cramps.
• If you are already being treated but still have complaints.