Beyond Dehydration: Unexpected Triggers for Your Muscle Cramps

5. Certain Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, including thyroid conditions, diabetes, and liver disorder, can increase an individual's risk of developing muscle cramps. Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough adequate insulin. Insulin turns sugar into energy cells can use. If the sugar is staying in the blood instead of being converted to energy, the muscles become starved of resources and can cramp. Hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone, can cause several symptoms. They include muscle stiffness, weakness, and cramping, as well as a reduction in temperature, depression, and severe lethargy. Many forms of liver disease can cause muscle cramping, but it is particularly common in cirrhosis. Cramp-fasciculation syndrome is a muscle condition that causes cramping. Many neurological disorders can also cause muscle spasms, contractures, and dystonia, which can all be mistaken for cramps.

6. Muscle Overuse

Many individuals may deal with muscle cramps if they overuse their muscles. This is often linked to exercising. Unfortunately, many individuals exercise too often or increase the intensity too quickly. This can lead to muscle injuries and muscle overuse, triggering cramps. Runners often experience leg cramps or side cramps due to muscle overuse. Other athletes are at risk of experiencing muscle cramps due to muscle overuse as well. Individuals should consider starting slow with their exercising routine and be sure to build in breaks every week to avoid overusing their muscles. Of course, it is vital to stop exercising if they notice signs of a muscle cramp. If it is mild, the healing process should be fast, but continuing to exercise can make it worse.