DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 78-year-old male with a problem I hope you can assist with. My hands and legs cramp. None of the doctors I’ve seen have any answers for me, so I hope you can help.
DEAR READER: Feet and hands can cramp for a number of reasons. You may have reduced levels of specific nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, potassium or vitamin D in your body. You may be dehydrated from working or exercising excessively without remembering to keep your fluid levels up. Then, you may have known (or unknown) kidney failure, hypothyroid, Parkinson’s or Huntington’s disease, or multiple sclerosis. Some medications can include cramping as an unwanted side effect.
I recommend that you speak with your physician who can order some simple laboratory testing, review your medications, and get you back on track.
