Symptom 11. Leg Cramps: Anemia’s Painful Muscle Connection
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Leg cramps, those sudden, intense muscle contractions, can be more than just a fleeting discomfort if you have anemia. When your muscles lack a sufficient supply of oxygen-rich blood, it can result in painful cramps, particularly in the leg muscles.
Often, these cramps may strike out of the blue, hitting you during periods of rest or sleep. They can disrupt your routine, making it challenging to engage in normal physical activities, and rob you of a good night’s rest.
While there can be numerous causes of leg cramps, persistent or recurrent episodes may be a sign of anemia. The cramps are your muscles’ way of telling you they’re not getting enough oxygen. (11)
