Spasms
Spasms
Spasms (/ˈspazəm/; from Ancient Greek σπασμός, spasmós) are involuntary, often painful, muscle contractions. They can occur in various parts of the body and are usually caused by a variety of conditions, including muscle strain, nerve damage, and certain diseases.
Etymology
The term "spasm" comes from the Ancient Greek word spasmós, which means "a tightening". It was first used in English in the late 14th century.
Types of Spasms
There are several types of spasms, including:
- Muscle spasms: These are the most common type of spasm and occur when a muscle involuntarily contracts and cannot relax.
- Smooth muscle spasms: These occur in the smooth muscles that control the automatic functions of the body, such as the intestines, bladder, and blood vessels.
- Skeletal muscle spasms: These occur in the muscles that are attached to the skeleton and are usually caused by overuse, dehydration, or electrolyte abnormalities.
Causes
Spasms can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Muscle strain
- Nerve damage
- Certain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease
- Certain medications
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalance
Treatment
Treatment for spasms depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Physical therapy
- Medications, such as muscle relaxants
- Surgery
- Lifestyle changes, such as staying hydrated and avoiding triggers
Related Terms
- Cramp: A type of muscle spasm that is often associated with pain and a bulging muscle.
- Twitch: A small, involuntary movement of a small group of muscles.
- Convulsion: A severe, often violent, involuntary contraction of the muscles.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Spasms
- Wikipedia's article - Spasms
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