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. [Read more...]