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Cramps During Pregnancy:Sudden severe leg muscle cramps at night during pregnancy is a very common problem. These cramps often occur in the calf or toes and can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. In many homes, it is directly linked to calcium deficiency, but it is not necessary that every time it is due to calcium deficiency only. Here we will know from Dr. Manju Goyal, gynecologist of Narayana Hospital, what are the reasons for leg cramps at night?

Increasing weight also has an impact

As pregnancy progresses, body weight increases and the size of the stomach also increases. This puts more pressure on the muscles and joints of the legs than before. After standing for a long time or walking a lot throughout the day, you may feel muscle strain and cramps at night.

There are changes in blood volume and circulation in the body during pregnancy. The growing uterus can put pressure on the veins that carry blood back to the heart from the legs. This may increase heaviness or discomfort in the legs.

Lack of water can also be the reason

The body needs adequate water during pregnancy. If less water is drunk, there is less water and salts in the body due to vomiting or excessive sweating, then the problem of muscle cramps may increase. Therefore it is important to take adequate amount of water and fluids throughout the day.

However, it would not be correct to link every leg cramp to dehydration. Sometimes cramps may occur despite drinking enough water.

Is calcium or magnesium deficiency responsible?

Minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium are essential for the normal functioning of the muscles and nerves of the body. But having leg cramps during pregnancy does not necessarily mean that there is a mineral deficiency.

It is not a good idea to start calcium or magnesium tablets without testing. It is better to take any kind of supplement during pregnancy only after consulting the doctor. Attention should also be paid to taking essential nutrients from a balanced diet.

What to do to get relief from night cramps?

When there is a sudden cramp, slowly straighten the leg and pull the toe towards you. Light massage on the muscle can also provide relief. Light physical activity and leg stretching during the day may be helpful.

An easy habit to do is to do a few minutes of light stretching before bed. Avoid sitting or standing in one position for long periods of time and keep your legs slightly elevated during rest.

When is it important to talk to a doctor?

Normal cramping goes away after some time. But if there is persistent swelling, redness, warmth or severe pain in one leg, it should not be ignored as normal pregnancy cramps. The risk of blood clot formation may increase during pregnancy and in case of such symptoms it is important to immediately contact a doctor.

Therefore, it is not correct to consider night leg cramps during pregnancy as mere calcium deficiency. Changes in the body, increasing weight, changes in blood circulation, pressure on muscles and many factors to water or nutrients can play a role in this. If cramps are recurring or accompanied by unusual symptoms, the safest course of action is to talk to a doctor.

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