COPD & Emphysema Support Group

Hi...

Might be a good idea to check with your doctor. I don't know what medications you are on, but I do know that medications I have been on have had an impact on my potassium levels requiring supplemental potassium. Muscle cramping was a sympthom and low potassium is not a good thing.

Then, too, it could be just a muscle cramp. :O) At any rate, hope you're feeling better!

If this is something you have not had problem with and it does continue, I would be talking with the doctor about it, as the cause could be many things. Don't know the meds you are on but even some meds can be associated with cramping. Again if it is a new thing check with doc if continues.

I have COPD and sometimes get horrible muscle cramps in my feet, legs, hands, neck, etc. My doctor had me use 8 oz. of tonic water a day, one banana and a serving of dried apricots. I found that prescription to be extremely helpful. The cramps have all but disappeared. Hope this is helpful to you folks as well.

a friend told me about the tonic water. but you have to make sure it has quinine in it. that's what they use to treat muscle cramps.

In response to Mamamarge, the tonic water needs to have quinine in it. It's very bitter and hard to get down but if you make sure it's cold, pour out 8 oz in a glass and drink it down first thing in the morning, you get used to it. That's what my doctor's nurse told me. However, it does seem to be doing the trick. Also, don't forget the dried apricots. Delicious!!

I've had a lot of cramping going on too.My potassium level is fine.I was told to try vitamin B-1 and vitamin B-50.Worked!

I want to thank everyone for their replies. I will try the tonic water. It can't hurt to try it. I am going to talk to the doctor about the cramps. I realoly do appreciate all of you on this site. You are all really helpful.

Thank you for asking this question. I too have been having cramp since I came home from the hospital a month ago. Leg,feet, back, hands, toes etc. I was wondering if the med. have anything to do with these cramps? Hope you feel better. Sandi B.

Tonic water is just great with a little lemon or lime juice added. Also, everything everyone has said is true, but I've also heard that leg cramps, especially nighttime, can be caused by low calcium. You need to make sure you're getting all your minerals, anyway, because of the meds we are on. But potassium, calcium, magnesium and Vitamin D to help you absorb it all are critical. Good luck!

looks like this has popped back up. i notice all the reference to the potassium...you have to be very careful taking it. and overdose can be bad! so, check with a doctor before you take it.