What’s WRONG WITH ME?

Common symptoms, and what could be causing them. This week: leg cramps

IT’S not uncommon to feel your legs seize up from time to time, especially as you get older. Usually the cramps are harmless and stop after a few seconds, although the leg might feel sore for up to 24 hours.

If they are frequent, one of several underlying problems could be at play. Post-exercise muscle strain is one cause, as is being dehydrated or drinking too much alcohol. Medicines that lower cholesterol, such as statins, and tablets for high blood pressure can cause cramps too. See a GP if they last longer than ten minutes and trigger numbness, swelling or other symptoms.