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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Leg Cramps?

I am currently a heart patient, and have started to experience leg cramps. What could be some reasons for that. I ve had them in the past, but not as often. I ve heard they can be from medications, or dehydration? I ve taken two 99mg over the counter potassium the last several nights, but still get cramps several times a night. They only seem to happen when my legs are up in a recliner, or in bed. Can I take more potassium or is there a maximum a person can take? Or is there something else that might cause them? Mike,
posted on Sat, 1 Nov 2014
Twitter Tue, 25 Nov 2014 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 25 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement,  's  Response
Hello,
Thanks for your query.
Your description suggests that you are getting cramps in the calf muscles.Cramps are painful spasms in a muscle and are often caused by overuse, dehydration, or nutritional deficiencies.
Following measure will help-
*Drink fluid-An electrolyte imbalance can be the cause of muscle spasms, so rehydrating with an electrolyte drink can help restore balance.
*Stretch the affected muscle with a mild, static stretch.
*Use ice to numb the pain in a cramp, reducing inflammation and allowing the muscle to relax.
*Bring the affected muscle into a relaxed position and apply direct compression to the cramp

I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.
Take care
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What Causes Leg Cramps?

Hello, Thanks for your query. Your description suggests that you are getting cramps in the calf muscles.Cramps are painful spasms in a muscle and are often caused by overuse, dehydration, or nutritional deficiencies. Following measure will help- *Drink fluid-An electrolyte imbalance can be the cause of muscle spasms, so rehydrating with an electrolyte drink can help restore balance. *Stretch the affected muscle with a mild, static stretch. *Use ice to numb the pain in a cramp, reducing inflammation and allowing the muscle to relax. *Bring the affected muscle into a relaxed position and apply direct compression to the cramp I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query. Take care