Feet/Lower Leg Cramps - Steroids

[jg2001]

I went to my doctor last week and he doubled my Qvar dosage to 600 mcg.  Over the last couple days, my feet/lower legs (right above the ankles) have been cramping almost on a daily basis.  Now, most of the what I have been dealing with, in regards to my asthma/emphysema, is tolerable...pain is not.  My water intake has increased due to my HCV diagnoses in November, so I don't think dehydration is the cause.  I am breathing better, however,if the two are related, I'm not sure if this is something that I want to deal with.  In other words, if the result of breathing better means that I have to live with these cramps...I don't know if it is a good trade.  Yes, I am whining.  I am a survivor of natural child birth, but that pain subsided in a few hours.  These cramps, which sometimes look like I have a walnut growing on the top of my foot or ankle, occur almost daily and sometimes several times a day.  Do you know if there is a relationship between the steroids and cramps?  Thanks for letting me whine!.

Jamie

[National Jewish]

Your cramping may be due to your increased water intake along with the Qvar™ Inhaler (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA).

Cramping is a possible steroid side effect.  It is rare to have side effects with an inhaled steroid, like the Qvar™ Inhaler (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA).  However side effects are more likely to occur with higher doses of an inhaled steroid.  So it is possible that your ankle and foot cramping is due to the Qvar™ Inhaler (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA).  Please check with your doctor to be sure.  Also talk to your doctor about changing your Qvar™ Inhaler (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA) to the lowest dose that will control your asthma and emphysema.

[fotobug1963]

I know when I was on oral steroids (a very high dose) I would get severe leg cramps. Ones that brought tears to my eyes. But I never heard of anyone complain of it on inhaled steroids. There may be other reasons for your leg cramps. I have heard that some people take Vitamin E for leg cramps. But be careful not to take too much.

[Shiney]

I can tell from your description how painful this must be for you.  Your frustration also comes through very clearly.  I feel for you and I hope you find relief...soon.  Have you and your doctor discussed the possibility of potassium deficiency (and supplementation)?  If not, it might be worth a quick phone call.  Good luck.

God bless.
Take care...Shiney