What it means
Leg cramps are common at night, in pregnancy, after heavy exercise and with dehydrationdee-hy-DRAY-shunA state in which the body has lost more water than it has taken in.de- remove, lack ofhydr/o water-ation processFull entry or low levels of potassium, calcium or magnesium. Belly cramps come from the bowel or the uterus, as with menstrual cramps.
For the nurse
For a calf cramp, gently stretch the muscle by pulling the toes up toward the knee, and massage it. Ask about fluid intake and diuretic use, and check electrolyte results.
At a glance
| Spanish | calambre |
|---|---|
| Also written | cramps, cramping |
Related terms
hypokalemia
A blood potassium level below normal, under 3.5 mEq/L.
dehydration
A state in which the body has lost more water than it has taken in.
hypomagnesemia
A blood magnesium level below normal.