Night Cramps: Who’s at Risk?

Night cramps—sudden, painful muscle contractions during sleep—can affect anyone, but some groups are more vulnerable.

1. Older Adults
   Nearly one-third of people over 60 experience cramps due to muscle loss, reduced flexibility, weaker nerves, and poorer circulation.

2. Pregnant Women
   Cramps are common in pregnancy, especially later on. Weight, hormone shifts, and circulation changes make muscles more sensitive.

3. Athletes
   Intense training, dehydration, and electrolyte loss raise cramp risk, especially without enough stretching or recovery.

4. Sedentary Individuals
   Long hours of sitting or standing slow circulation, making legs prone to cramping at night.

5. People With Health Conditions
   Diabetes, circulation problems, kidney disease, and nerve disorders can trigger frequent cramps.

6. Medication Users
   Diuretics, cholesterol drugs, and others may cause fluid or electrolyte imbalances that lead to cramps.