Leg Cramps

[ALucy]

I get from time to time a cramp in my lower right leg.  The pain is excruciating and lasts for about 5 minutes. These moments are very painful and I can only try to rub out the cramp or flex my feet to get any type of relief. From time to time, on the same leg my ankle also swells.  Any suggestions as to what is the cause of this?

[marinaz6]

Yes, I agree with you on the potassium deficiency. It is a frequent cause of leg cramps.

[2shakesaway]

Could be a multitude of things....rule out potassium deficiency first by eating banana's.  If that does not work then I would visit the doctor for vascular diagnosis.

[caregiver222]

You require an evaluation by a vascular specialist, who will probably order a color dopplar.  This painless and non-invasions and involves running an ultrasound probe and receiver up and down the leg while the image is displayed on a CRT. The most common cause is circulatory, and a diagnosis of what is called intermittant claudication is likely. The pulses of the feet must be evaluated. There are various treatments, ranging from inserting a balloon into the blood vessel to enlarge the diameter, to a replacement of a vessel or insertion of mesh to keep it open.. A hematologist consult is in order to rule out problems such as too high a hematocrit or malformed erythrocytes that are clogging up the blood vessels. On a short-term basis, good hydration, a baby aspirin a day and 1000 mg of omega-3 fish oil may provide some relief. Sometimes there is co-factor, such as a calcium and vitamin D-3 deficiency, however from the symptoms you describe the problem is likely to be vascular. Have this evaluated as soon as possible, because serious life-threatening problems may develop that can be forestalled by appropriate intervention.