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

[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

[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.