Severe Muscle Cramps related to Hoshimoto's

I have had Hypothyroidism (Hoshimoto's) for 15 years. My involuntary muscle cramping is severe, mostly while sleeping with no reason for triggering the cramping. It can be anywhere in my body but most painful in the groin area. I'm am taking Synthroid and my levels are acceptable according to my family doc. Recently I contracted the flu and was given a steriod inj. and tamaflu. Can the inj. effect my Thyroid which in turn make my muscle cramping more severe ( which is what I'm experiencing)?  P.S. I just got a cramp in my hand from typing this !

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

Muscle cramps are not an uncommon manifestation of a systemic viral illness. However, the most common causes of muscle cramping are metabolic, such as thyroid problems or low potassium.

If you continue to have muscle cramping, I would suggest you have routine blood work performed to look at your potassium and calcium and CK level. You should also discuss with your physician if an EMG/NCS would be indicated to evaluate the muscles and nerves.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.