How Can Persistent Nighttime Leg Cramps Be Treated Despite Physical Exercises?

Posted on Sat, 3 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 3 Mar 2018 Answered on

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Woke up last night about 3am from an entire leg cramp or XXXXXXX horse. I got up after cramp to use the bathroom and started sweating profusely. Apparently I also fainted while in the bath as everything around the toilet was knocked off. I am 54, 184#, regular jogger-fitness center user, don't smoke or drink, and have constant check ups as I use Lunesta. I did have an ulcer in my throat last December which I thought was food poisoning. Stool sample is okay. I think I had a panic attack from the leg cramp since it woke me up, but not sure? I did push myself yesterday by running 8 miles in 63 minutes on a treadmill, did 30 minutes stretching-cool down, exercised 20 minutes on various weight machines, 10 minutes hot tub, 17 minutes sauna, and ate a late breakfast. Had an omlette w/ green pepper, onions, mushrooms, and a little bit of co-jack cheese. I did feel a little "crummy" yesterday afternoon, but seemed okay. Obviously my legs are letting me know this morning I should take it a little slower-lol!

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

The intensity and duration of your workout are to blame!

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Exercising is good but I believe that was over the board. That is the main reason why you woke up in cramps.

I encourage you to keep exercising for health benefits but avoid overdoing it.

You equally seem to eat healthy which is a great way of life.

Remember to get some rest, drink many fluids and monitor your urine volume and colour. report any changes to me.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Ivo Ditah, Internal Medicine Specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar