Re: Does a lack of water cause muscle cramps?

Hi Paul.

A lack of water can cause muscle cramps.  Dehydration may be due to 
excessive perspiration, vomiting, diarrhea, or even diruetic medication or 
just not drinking enough water.  I couldn't find a web site that explained 
in detail why this happens.

The Mayo Clinic suggests drinking 6 to 8 cups of water daily to prevent leg 
cramps because fluid helps your muscles relax and contract.  http://
www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9502/htm/tips_2-5.htm

Other causes of muscle cramps are on this web site: http://netwellness.org/mhc/scr/003193sc.htm#Common causes:

Generally though, when a muscle contracts, the concentration of electrolytes 
such as potassium and sodium ions changes in your muscle.  A change in the 
amount of water in your body might cause the concentration of your 
electrolytes to be out of balance which could cause muscle cramping.

Hope this helps.  Bonnie.