DEAR DR. GOTT: On an almost daily basis, I have muscle cramps in my hands, fingers, legs, feet and toes. They occur during the day and night.
I take 25 milligrams of HydroDiuril and two 595-milligram doses of over-the-counter potassium gluconate. I drink several glasses of water a day plus water with my meals. Is there anything else that I can do to relieve these cramps?
DEAR READER: HydroDiuril is simply hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a common medication used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It can cause muscle and joint pain and a reduction of potassium, which can cause cramping, but you are on supplements to avoid the common side effects. HCTZ can also cause a reduction in the amount of magnesium in your body. While studies suggest that most people may be deficient already, symptoms are not common. If your low levels are further reduced by your medication, this can lead to symptoms of deficiency, which include cramping.
Try adding a magnesium supplement to determine whether the cramping lessens. Speak to your doctor to determine how much you should take. If this doesn’t help, perhaps a change in medication is in order.
Other possible options include calcium supplements, eating pickles or drinking the juice, consuming electrolyte or sports drinks (pickles, pickle juice and sports drinks can be high in sodium, so be sure to read labels), or rubbing marjoram oil (one part marjoram to one part castor or olive oil to prevent skin irritation) over the affected areas.
To provide related information, I am sending you copies of my Health Reports “Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies” and “More Compelling Home Remedies.” Other readers who would like copies should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order per report payable to Newsletter and mailed to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title(s) or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
