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The food you eat is important in avoiding muscle cramps. Eating foods like bananas, oranges, and potatoes for potassium, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables for magnesium, and dairy products, fortified plant milks, and leafy greens for calcium can help keep your electrolyte levels in check. Drinking lots of water and not consuming too much caffeine or alcohol can help keep muscles hydrated and working properly.
When should you go to the doctor?
Although charley horses are usually harmless, there are times when it may be important to seek medical help. If you often have strong or lasting muscle cramps that affect your daily activities, it’s crucial to see a doctor. If cramps come with swelling, redness, or other strange symptoms, or if they happen with other health problems, it’s important to see a doctor to check for issues like nerve compression, circulation problems, or deficiencies that might need special treatment.
Final thoughts
Charley horses, although usually not a big deal, can be uncomfortable and bothersome. Knowing why they happen and acting to stop them can greatly decrease how often they occur and how bad they are. To keep your muscles healthy and reduce painful cramps, make sure to drink enough water, eat well, and exercise regularly. If they happen, basic treatments such as stretching, massaging, and drinking enough water can quickly help. And remember, if you are unsure, always ask a doctor for help with any ongoing or worrying problems.
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