leg cramps

I was really hoping the leg cramps I was experiencing were due to the large fibroid pressing on a nerve. Well, I've had the surgery and it seems I still have leg cramps - drats!

My only hope is that I'm still really swollen from surgery (it was only 5 days ago) and maybe my legs will settle down after the swelly belly does? I have an appt. at the end of July with a neurosurgeon to see what can be done but was hoping to tell him all is well after the TAH.

Oh well - play the waiting game again!

In my case leg cramps have been caused by anemia once and another time by lack of potassium. Make sure you aren't anemic , then try some bananas and orange juice. Hope this helps!

I agree with Hi*Yall... bananas for potasium.... and make sure your eating sufficient iron...

If you find it isn't helping be sure to mention it to your doctor; he can order a blood test to check your potasium level, and give you a pill if it is too low...

There is also quinine for leg cramps available over the counter in the pharmacy.... even WalMart carries them...

Ces.

Sorry, you are having leg cramps too. Mine are caused by anemia and I have been on prenatal vitamins from MD. I also take a magnesium/calcium/zinc supplement everyday. Additionally, I have been eating bananas like crazy. Are you still wearing your support stockings from the hospital. They help with the cramping, and I wear them religiously. I also get the leg twitching which is very annoying. When I wear the stockings, I hardly notice it though.

Take care!

rusty- leg cramping is common when you are lacking in calcium & magnesium, find yourself a good supplement with a good 1:1 or 1:2 ratio, make sure it includes vit D & zinc & maganese. Just plain calcium isn't good enough as you need vit D & magnesium to absorb it. As you are in the healing stages your body prob needs more, make sure you eat right & take your vitamins. If you are taking iron supplements make sure you don't take these at the same time. Calcium will prevent the iron from being absorbed, take iron or calcium at least 2 hours apart!
I hope this helps you, I know what you are going through.

Bonny

I have taken these supplements in the past but always seems to fall of the wagon. Maybe I better give it another go. I've been battling with this for years and am actually going to see a neurologist at the end of July. In the meantime I think I'll take your advice! Thanks!

Rusty,

I agree totally with Skystorm...give the supplements a try. Both my Dr. and my Chiro told me to start taking the calcium/magnesium/zinc supplement (look for the 1:2) ratio she described - widely available in just one capsule. Both said that calcium isn't just for the bones, it's essential for proper muscle function as well. After a week, zero leg cramps and even my 'tennis elbow' was almost gone!

And yes, potassium too. Just be careful with taking a potassium supplement if you are also taking blood pressure meds or diuretics that are considered 'potassium sparing' drugs. You should ask your Dr. if you are in that situation.

Good luck...
Jordan

I also have leg cramps with anaemia!

csafrica19- Are you taking iron supplements? If you are please take them with vit c as you will absorb more iron, & if you take calcium, take them at least 2 hours apart, I just found out today that I am anemic, & will have to go for iron shots.

Bonny
TAH due to large fast growing fibroids.