Is this sound medical advice, or just a bunch of the same old typical useless cr!
Question:
Is this sound medical advice, or just a bunch of the same old typical useless crapola from American doctors?
I had extreme muscle cramping in my foot and other leg in the middle of the night, even though I had eaten a banana in the evening. I felt like screaming out in pain. I've had bad muscle cramps before, but nothing this severe. Then later this morning after a meeting both legs cramped up around my knees when I went to stand up, even though I had taken calcium, potassium and magnesium supplements a few hour before. (Embarrassing and quite painful!)
My doctor is out today, but the one "on call" had her nurse call me back recommending that I apply "warm compresses?" Wouldn't they at least be interested in my electrolyte levels?
(I am not taking anti-cholesterol meds except for niaspan.)
5 days ago
Right, though I worked very hard yesterday washing walls and the ceiling as prep for painting, I doubt I was dehydrated as I drank a lot of water throughout the day.
Answers:
It is NOT sound medical advice, but who really expects that these days? Sorry to be so cynical, but perhaps they don't know what "electrolyte levels" mean. Until your PCP is available, (if you trust him), do some research on medical websites. We have to take FULL responsibility for ourselves currently. I had extremely painful leg muscle cramping some time ago, & my doctor prescribed--if I can remember--sodium chlorlide? (sp) The PHARMACIST warned me that whatever the h--- it was, had been known to be fatal. I wasn't as on top of things as I am now, didn't take the medication or ask for any testing, & fortunately--the cramping just went away. I don't know your age, but you might also demand an ultrasound for possible PAD. You need to be well informed, & TELL your doctor what you want, so you can rule out a possibly serious condition that needs immediate attention. I have some real horror tales before I learned to inform MYSELF. (Some doctors hate it when you know what you're talking about!) Press forward & good luck..