Can You Really Ignore Leg Cramps?

Sep 20, 2022

              The main causes of leg cramps include: pregnancy, dehydration, muscle strains, underlying medical conditions, inadequate blood flow and side effects of drugs such as diuretics. In most cases, leg cramps go away after applying ice to the muscle or taking a warm bath or a hot shower. However, leg cramps can also signal: nerve problems, muscle fatigue or magnesium deficiency in the body. In more severe cases, they can be caused by: heart disease, PAD, spinal cord injuries, deep vein thrombosis or blood clots in the leg. The main signs of a blood clot include: swelling (in the exact spot where the clot forms), change in color, pain, edema and an unusually warm feeling in the leg.

            A blood clot can stay in the leg between three and six months. It can go away on its own or cause a stroke or heart attack. This is why it is advisable not to ignore leg cramps. If they signal the existence of blood clots, then action needs to be taken immediately and see a vascular vein doctor near me for treatment and to prevent serious outcomes. For instance, aspirin or anticoagulants can be taken to help dissolve the clots and prevent strokes or heart attacks. Aspirin in particular can be bought without prescription and it is a highly efficient blood thinner. In addition, there are certain foods and nutritional supplements that can help dissolve clots naturally. The best known ones are: turmeric, vitamin E, ginger, cayenne pepper and cinnamon.