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Suggest Treatment To Relieve Severe Cramps In The Calves Of The Legs, And Hands

Posted on Fri, 20 Sep 2024

Question: I very often, 3 or 4 times per week, while I am sleeping, get severe cramps in the calves of my legs. Also now and then I get a cramp in one or the other of my hands, during the day when I am holding something for an extended period.
I take Potassium each morning, 595mg, and drink orange juice .
What else do you suggest?
Thank you.....Earl

Answered by Dr. Varinder (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
potassium careful

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I have read your query and fully understand your problem but one thing is not clear that why are you taking potassium supplement .
Because potassium supplements are to be taken with some diuretics or persons with clinically and lab test proven low potassium. Even in such patients fruit juices as orange are enough .
Because excess of potassium is culprit of many things incluiding muscle abnormal sensations and cramps .
Second sodium and potassium are reversely linked so disturbance of one disturb others .
So my advise is that if no doctor suggested you to take potassium supplement after diagnosing low potassium level in lab then avoid potassium. If potassium is mildly low orange juice will be enough.
Also undergo lab test for serum level of Vit d , Vit B 12 , serum calcium , serum sodium and serum potassium ..
Also undergo lab test for Hb ..blood sugar ...urine test .
So my final comment is
1. stop potassium supplement .
2. if doctor advised first try fruit juices for Potassium .
3 take adequate diet .
4 take plenty of water .
5 if other lab test come annormal proper care for them .

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care,
Dr varinder XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Varinder (23 hours later)

Thank you.
I will discontinue the Potassium and continue with orange juice.
I do take multiple 'B' Complex vitamins which include vitamin 'B12' and also vitamin 'D'.
Thank you for your advice.
Earl
...................................................................
I definitely will grade your response as a % star.
Thanks again,
Earl

Answered by Dr. Varinder (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
thanks

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Take well nourished food and daily walk , avoid smoking , alcohal only 30 ml per day plus engage in some social work .

Take care,
Dr varinder XXXXXXX .

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana