Question

Why exactly does dehydration cause muscle cramps?

Now, I know that when you sweat excessively, you lose a lot of your body's sodium, which is important for a nerve impulse to transmit through a neuron and into muscle tissue. But, I don't understand why the sodium is needed in order for this to happen. Any help would seriously be greatly appreciated. Thanks :)

Answer 1

because its painful duh

Answer 2

@moniquee, I honestly don't know if you thought that you're response was helpful, but judging by the dictation, I'd say that it is rather easy to assume otherwise. With that being said, this site is meant to be used for students seeking help in their studies. I am fully aware that there are people on this site that use it for socializing as well, but it is fairly easy to tell when a student legitimately needs help; my post is an excellent example of that. I don't post questions on here unless I absolutely need help, and to be frank, your answer was not only unhelpful, but it was also rude. In the future, I suggest that if you do not intend to be helpful and/or kind while responding to a post, then don't bother wasting your time or anyone else's.

Sincerely,
Anw1317

Answer 3

For anyone that is curious as to what the answer is to why low sodium can cause muscle cramps, here's the answer: Sodium, along with other electrolytes, direct muscle contractions by triggering nerve impulses. So, when your sodium levels are too low, the nerve signals go haywire, which in turn, causes for your muscles to cramp up. If anyone has more in-depth information, then feel free to add on.