Night Leg Cramps May Signal Hidden Vascular Problems, Warns Texas Surgeon

Post by : Saif Nasser

Leg cramps at night are often brushed aside as a normal part of ageing, dehydration, or low potassium. Many people simply stretch, walk around, and go back to sleep. But according to a Texas-based vascular surgeon, these painful cramps may sometimes be a warning sign of deeper health problems linked to blood flow.

Dr Rema Malik, a vascular surgeon based in Texas, has raised concerns about frequent nighttime leg cramps. She says that waking up regularly with cramped legs should not always be ignored, especially in adults over the age of 40. In some cases, these cramps may be distress signals coming from the vascular system.

Leg cramps, also called “charley horses,” are sudden and painful muscle spasms. They usually affect the calves, feet, or thighs and often strike at night. Studies show that around 60% of adults experience leg cramps at night, compared to about 40% of children and teenagers. While the problem becomes more common with age, Dr Malik warns that it is not always harmless.

Dr Malik explains that many people quickly blame dehydration or low potassium for their cramps. While these causes are possible, they do not explain all cases. In her medical practice, she looks closely at two main vascular conditions that can trigger leg cramps at night.

The first condition is venous insufficiency, which Dr Malik calls a “pressure problem.” This happens when veins in the legs struggle to send blood back to the heart. After a long day of sitting or standing, blood can pool in the lower legs. At night, this stagnant blood and fluid can irritate nerves and muscles. This irritation can cause strong cramps and a restless feeling in the legs. Dr Malik says this is the most common vascular cause of nighttime leg cramps, especially in people over 40.

The second condition is peripheral artery disease (PAD), which she describes as a “flow problem.” PAD occurs when arteries become clogged and fail to supply enough oxygen-rich blood to the leg muscles. In advanced cases, pain can occur even when the body is at rest, including during sleep. These cramps, sometimes called “rest pain,” are more serious and can even threaten the health of the limb if left untreated. The risk of PAD increases significantly after the age of 50.

Dr Malik stresses that such cramps should not be dismissed as a normal sign of growing older. Persistent or severe leg cramps, especially those that wake a person from sleep, deserve medical attention. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.

She also reminds people that listening to the body is important. While occasional leg cramps may not be dangerous, frequent nighttime cramps can be a sign that blood flow is not working as it should.

Doctors advise anyone experiencing regular leg cramps at night to speak with a healthcare professional. Proper tests and guidance can help identify the cause and ensure timely treatment.