Can Dehydration Cause Muscle Twitching?
Medically reviewed by Faith Coleman, University of New Mexico School of Medicine on August 22nd, 2026.
Yes. Dehydration can cause muscle twitching because fluid loss disrupts electrolytes—especially potassium, magnesium, and calcium—that regulate nerve and muscle function. Even mild dehydration (1–2% of body weight) can trigger twitching, particularly in the calves, eyelids, and hands, and symptoms often improve within hours of rehydration with fluids and electrolytes. Persistent twitching lasting more than a few days may indicate other causes and should be evaluated by a clinician.
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