What Causes Cramps In Legs After A Very Hot Shower?

Posted on Sun, 7 Feb 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 7 Feb 2016 Answered on

Thu, 7 Apr 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : After I take very hot shower my legs feel normal, sort of crampy, and I can go to sleep. Been going on for about 4 months.

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Tips and precautions to reduce cramps

Detailed Answer:
Hi there.

Thanks for the query.

Do you exercise regularly or work at the Gym?

Warm shower stimulating cramps could signify Electrolyte imbalance and increased muscle fatigue.

Usually cramps can be triggered be sudden muscle stretch as in unaccustomed exercise without warming up, Electrolyte disorders, dehydration, lack of sleep and emotional stress.

It would be helpful to get a few investigations done such as Compete blood count, Serum Sodium, Serum Potassium, Serum calcium, Serum Magnesium.

You can apply cold packs, massages, regular gradual leg stretching, warmup exercises before going to bed, drinking 2 litres of water daily, drinking fresh Lemonade daily, eating plenty of fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables, taking multivitamin and mineral supplements with calcium, Vitamin D and Magnesium.

You can keep your legs soaked in warm water with added table salt for 15 minutes before going to bed.

Do try these tips and flew precautions and follow up with me.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.
Regards,

Dr. Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D