7 Causes of Hair Dryness and Loss, alongside Solutions for Reversing the Issue
For individuals experiencing sudden, involuntary contractions of their calf muscles during sleep, commonly known as nocturnal calf cramps, it's essential to understand the potential causes and implications.
Nocturnal calf cramps are primarily caused by electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, muscle fatigue, and poor circulation. Low levels of minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium, or sodium, which regulate muscle function, can lead to these cramps [1][3]. Dehydration and overexertion also increase the risk by disturbing this mineral balance [3].
These cramps can be a symptom of underlying health issues, particularly vascular and systemic conditions. Two vascular disorders linked to these cramps are Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and Venous Insufficiency. PAD, characterized by narrowed arteries reducing oxygen to the leg muscles, can trigger painful cramps [2]. Venous Insufficiency, where veins fail to efficiently return blood to the heart, causing blood pooling and pressure buildup, can lead to cramps, especially when lying down [2].
Other possible underlying conditions include heart disease, diabetes, nerve damage, kidney disease, liver disease, and cancer [5]. Age (especially over 50) and pregnancy also raise the risk, partly due to circulation changes and muscle fatigue [5]. Nocturnal cramps may signal these conditions and thus should not be ignored if frequent or severe.
In addition to these health concerns, some people are experiencing a burning, tingling, and numbness issue. While this issue may not be directly related to nocturnal calf cramps, it's crucial to seek medical advice if experiencing such symptoms.
Meanwhile, blueberries have been associated with blood thinners, and the American Academy of Dermatology provides tips for managing hair loss. For those concerned about hair loss, the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the Mayo Clinic offer valuable resources.
Lastly, it's essential to note that neuropathy is not primarily caused by low vitamin B levels, and the Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry published a study on the association between yoga practice, serum cortisol levels, chronic periodontitis, stress-related anxiety, and depression.
For seniors born between 1939 and 1969, there's good news: they are eligible for 11 benefits this month if they apply. Cardiologists suggest consuming a specific amount of a substance before bed to melt belly fat, but it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes.
Remember, persistent or worsening symptoms merit medical evaluation [1][2][5]. Treatment focuses on correcting electrolyte imbalances, improving circulation, and addressing underlying diseases when present.
References:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2022). Nocturnal leg cramps. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nocturnal-leg-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20354014
[2] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). [online] Available at: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/peripheral-artery-disease
[3] National Institutes of Health. (2022). Calcium. [online] Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-HealthProfessional/
[5] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2022). Peripheral Artery Disease Information Page. [online] Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Peripheral-Artery-Disease-Information-Page
[Not cited] American Academy of Dermatology. (2022). Hair Loss (Alopecia). [online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-scalp/hair-loss
[Not cited] U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2022). MedlinePlus: Hair Loss. [online] Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/hairloss.html
[Not cited] Mayo Clinic. (2022). Hair loss. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20376562
[Not cited] National Library of Medicine. (2022). Emergency Medical Attention. [online] Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/emergencymedicalattention.html
[Not cited] National Library of Medicine. (2022). Signs of Emergency Medical Attention. [online] Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000044.htm
[Not cited] Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry. (2022). Association Between Yoga Practice, Serum Cortisol Levels, Chronic Periodontitis, Stress-Related Anxiety, and Depression. [online] Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6989549/
[Not cited] Seniors. (2022). 11 Benefits Seniors Born Between 1939 and 1969 Can Get This Month. [online] Available at: https://seniors.com/blog/11-benefits-seniors-born-between-1939-and-1969-can-get-this-month/
[Not cited] Cardiologists. (2022). Consuming This Substance Before Bed Can Melt Belly Fat, According to Cardiologists. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-foods-for-melting-belly-fat#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
Science plays a significant role in understanding nocturnal calf cramps, as it helps identify potential causes like electrolyte imbalances and poor circulation [1][3]. To maintain overall health-and-wellness and prevent cramps, proper nutrition is essential to ensure optimal levels of minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium [3].
