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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Muscle Cramps In The Abdomen And Thighs?

I am 47 y/o. I take potassium 2 times a day, and never any cramps or swelling. 15 minutes ago, I was sitting at my desk and my abdomen, back, along with my calf and thigh muscles cramped so bad, I became nauseated. I have never had such intense cramping or pain before, and now I am a little scared. It has subsided as of 3-4 minutes ago.
posted on Sat, 5 May 2018
Twitter Tue, 21 Aug 2018 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 27 Aug 2018 Last reviewed on
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

You may have too much potassium, and taking potassium and/or magnesium will make your cramps worse (magnesium increases the retention of potassium).

Sometimes, people on these medications have normal potassium, but still are getting unexplained cramps, even after supplementing with magnesium. In my experience of talking to hundreds of customers, these above medications are highly connected to cramps. It's not clear how, but I suspect they are able to cause cramps.

Also check for other possibilities like iron deficiency or panic attack or restless leg syndrome etc.

Use muscle relaxant, check for serum potassium levels. If symptoms not improved please consult your physician he will examine and treat you accordingly.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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What Causes Muscle Cramps In The Abdomen And Thighs?

Hi, You may have too much potassium, and taking potassium and/or magnesium will make your cramps worse (magnesium increases the retention of potassium). Sometimes, people on these medications have normal potassium, but still are getting unexplained cramps, even after supplementing with magnesium. In my experience of talking to hundreds of customers, these above medications are highly connected to cramps. It s not clear how, but I suspect they are able to cause cramps. Also check for other possibilities like iron deficiency or panic attack or restless leg syndrome etc. Use muscle relaxant, check for serum potassium levels. If symptoms not improved please consult your physician he will examine and treat you accordingly. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.