DEAR DR. GOTT:
I would like to comment on the problem of severe nocturnal leg cramps. I was a victim myself until I found the solution, so I understand the misery and frustration cramps cause.
The activities of the day cause fatigue and perspiration, resulting in depletion of saline and other electrolytes from the bloodstream. Tired and sensitive leg muscles respond by cramping. The cure is simple. Replace the electrolytes!
As soon as the cramps begin, drink an entire glass of Gatorade and wait five minutes. If the cramps have not stopped, drink another glass of Gatorade, go back to bed, and enjoy a peaceful and painless sleep! Forget the soap and prescription drugs. I have a hunch that restless legs syndrome (RLS) will respond to this therapy as well. And, for Heaven’s sake, stop the quinine. I’ve been told it can be harmful.
Professional athletes know all this. That’s why Gatorade was invented.
DEAR READER:
Gatorade was formulated in 1965 to replenish nutrients lost during rigorous exercise and sweating. It replaces electrolytes and carbohydrates, as well as glucose.
Today, there are numerous electrolyte replacement products. Pedialyte is one such product that was specially formulated for children suffering from vomiting and/or diarrhea. Most chain retailers now make store brand equivalents for both children and adults.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) has no identifiable origin and may result from multiple causes and mechanisms. It is an extremely complex disorder that can reflect, among other possibilities, a dopamine deficiency. RLS can be triggered by certain drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and physical trauma. If it were relieved by as simple a thing as Gatorade or other electrolyte replacement drink, I would be rather surprised and am sure the manufacturer would be elated. Nonetheless, if a reader is pacing the floors at an ungodly hour, it will do no harm to try your suggestion. I’d be grateful for comments.
I would like to reiterate the fact that Gatorade can only be useful once a cramp has started, whereas the soap-under-the-sheet trick can prevent the cramp. It would seem to me that soap is still a superior option for those suffering nocturnal leg cramps because sleep won’t be interrupted at all for most individuals.
If you would like to know more about RLS I recommend the book “Restless Legs Syndrome” by Robert Yoakum. In it the author discusses relief and hope for sleepless victims. It is available through most book stores, online or can be special ordered if your bookstore doesn’t have it in stock.
About Dr. Gott