leg cramps
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leg cramps
| Thu, 11-11-2004 - 1:16pm |
I have believed that I've suffered from hypothyroidism for some time, but was told that
I suffered from too much estrogen. Now I'm looking for a doctor, because I have a
new symptom: LEG CRAMPS. I feel as though I have a charlie horse in each of my
legs. Is this common? Previously, I've retained some water near my knee caps and
ankles - this bothers me a little, and ususally goes away in one day. Now, I've
had these cramps for 4 days. They've eased up a little, but they haven't gone away.
I started taking calcium/magnesium tablets and some Advil . . .any other suggestions?
Also, I HATE going to the doctor (and since my last one LAUGHED when I suggested
hypothroidism, I'm not eager to return to another one-I think she thought that because
I'm obese, I was using it as an excuse for my weight). Am I better off going with
a general pract. or an internist? I supposed I could insist on seeing an endocrinologist,
but that means one more trip to the doctor.
I suffered from too much estrogen. Now I'm looking for a doctor, because I have a
new symptom: LEG CRAMPS. I feel as though I have a charlie horse in each of my
legs. Is this common? Previously, I've retained some water near my knee caps and
ankles - this bothers me a little, and ususally goes away in one day. Now, I've
had these cramps for 4 days. They've eased up a little, but they haven't gone away.
I started taking calcium/magnesium tablets and some Advil . . .any other suggestions?
Also, I HATE going to the doctor (and since my last one LAUGHED when I suggested
hypothroidism, I'm not eager to return to another one-I think she thought that because
I'm obese, I was using it as an excuse for my weight). Am I better off going with
a general pract. or an internist? I supposed I could insist on seeing an endocrinologist,
but that means one more trip to the doctor.

"Muscle cramps are caused by an imbalance in the electrolytes and minerals in the body, including calcium, magnesium and potassium. Cramps can also be the result of unusual physical exertion, as occurs with “weekend athletes” or those just beginning a new exercise regimen. Inactivity, anemia, tobacco use, fibromyalgia, hormone imbalance, allergies, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, dehydration and hypothyroidism can also lead to muscle cramps. The use of diuretic drugs for high blood pressure or heart disorders may lead to electrolyte imbalances causing muscle cramps."
If you go to the site, you can read more about it. It seems from other reading that I've done that muscle cramps are another symptom of hypo and can only be "cured" bu taking hypo medication. And since you have suspected that that is your problem, I would really encourage you to go to the doctor - a GOOD doctor - to have a complete thyroid panel done. Don't settle for a second rate life full of symptoms and problems when you can seek out a good doctor and get treated. You will be amazed at how much better you can feel.
I know doctors can be imcompetent and insulting and very uncaring. We've all been there! But going to a doctor is the only way you're going to get help. We wish there was another way but there isn't. It may be that because of your weight, you feel that you're being singled out by your doctor but we've all heard stupid, insulting things from our doctors about everything, from weight to symptoms, to emotional problems, depression, you name it!! Some doctors want to believe that everything else is our problem, not our thyroid!! WHo knows why?? But don't let that stop you from getting the treatment that you need and deserve. I'm not kidding. This is a condition that doctors want to ignore or misdiagnose or undermedicate. We have to stand up for ourselves and our health. It's the only way to get the care you need.
You can try your family doctor if he or she is a good one. Otherwise, an endo or even an osteopath is best. But ask around. You will be surprised at how many people out there have thyroid conditions. Someone you know might know a good one. You can also check out these sites: http://www.aace.com/memsearch.php or http://www.thyroid.org/index.php3?M_Session=9994cd41eb24e7a8b784b42c34ca745a
Ok -I'll get off my little soapbox and put my megaphone down!! It sounds like you're on the right track with the supplements that you're taking for the cramps but only thyroid hormone replacement medication will truly fix them. Please feel free to ask any other questions you might have. I hope this helps. Cathy :)