What causes leg cramps?
Leg cramps that come on suddenly with no explanation or that persist for some time may be due to an issue with the blood vessels in your legs.
Dr. Aduli may recommend you undergo circulation tests that include venous or arterial testing. These screenings are completely pain-free and noninvasive.
Of course, you’ll need to also consult with your primary care physician to rule out kidney, heart, or thyroid diseases that could be causing your leg cramping.
How is venous insufficiency related to leg cramps?
Leg cramps may be a sign of venous insufficiency.
Venous insufficiency occurs when the one-way valves in your leg veins fail to keep blood pumping upward toward your heart. Blood pools in your legs, causing symptoms like aching, tingling, and cramping.
Other symptoms of venous insufficiency include changes in skin color, swelling, varicose and spider veins, and ulcerative sores near the ankle.
How is arterial disease related to leg cramping?
Peripheral arterial disease describes the narrowing of the arteries in the pelvis and legs. Usually, arterial disease develops after age 65, but you are vulnerable at younger ages if you have diabetes, smoke, have hypertension, or have a family history of atherosclerosis.
At Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers, you’ll be evaluated for arterial narrowing. In this condition, because the blood-delivering arteries in your lower body narrow, less blood goes to the muscles and tissues in your leg region. This may show up as leg cramping while walking.
What is the treatment for leg cramps?
If vascular disease is ruled out, simple lifestyle measures to resolve leg cramps include getting adequate hydration, exercising regularly, and managing a healthy weight.
When vascular disease causes leg cramping, you’ll receive a customized treatment plan to address your condition’s severity. Medical-grade stockings and adequate rest and leg elevation provide relief in many cases.
Dr. Aduli can help you determine if you need sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, or another procedure to relieve vein problems.
If you have leg cramps that don’t seem to have a clear cause or that are ongoing, contact Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers to undergo a vascular workup. Call today or use this website to schedule.