types of spasms
Types of Spasms
Spasms are typical and most common discomforts. Do we know about the different spasms that trigger pain in different parts of our body? For the curious and conscious minds, below are some facts.
- Cramps: They are painful and longer lasting sensations caused due to the contraction or over shortening of the muscles. A cramp is a type of muscle spasm. Most of the time, the reason for cramps in the muscles will be related to poor blood circulation in that particular area. Some of the dietary deficiencies of minerals like sodium and potassium are also the causes of cramps. A quick massage to the affected area can relieve the spasms.
- Convulsions: These are often confused with seizures. In this condition, there is extreme contraction and relaxation of the muscles, repeatedly. This causes intense pain as compared to all the spasm types. It is also a symptom of an epileptic seizure. Not all cases of epileptic seizures are convulsions. Also, it is not in every case that convulsions happen as a part of an epileptic seizure. Convulsions will last for few seconds to a minute. In case of repeated convulsions, epilepsy can be the underlying issue. Only after diagnosis can a treatment be prescribed for the convulsions and seizures.
- Tics or Twitching: These are the most basic and least risk posing spasms. This can be described as an uncontrolled, rapid, compulsive and repeated movement, that involves a certain group of muscles. It is a generalization that tics are typically eye spasms. Most of the time, tics will not last longer than a second. These can occur in the facial tissues and muscles as well as in the shoulder and the legs. Stress and trauma to the CNS (central nervous system) triggers these muscle contractions. Tics will not be painful, but they can be annoying, with repetitions. Adequate rest and remaining stress free will help in dealing with these type of spasms.