hubby has a liver problem and has done for years as most of you know due to earlier posts
now its not the moods ( their still there ) its a severe cramp in his lower left arm and leg . quite panicked him at the time . he was in bed when it happened ,( early night cause he was really tired ) but it has passed, now he seems ok but I'm not sure , any thoughts ,
Muscle cramps are very common in patients with cirrhosis this can be due to muscle wastage, metabolism issues and also issues with electrolytes (kidney function) and different mineral deficiencies (potassium, magnesium).
Ideally your husband needs to see a doctor to get some blood tests done to see if he has a deficiency which can be remedied by supplements - he must NOT self medicate or buy over the counter as if you don't have a deficiency and you take supplements it can cause even more problems.
Some people find that drinking some tonic water before bed aids with cramps as it contains a small amount of quinine. Others actually get prescribed quinine in low doses.
It would be worth a telephone consultation with doctor or a face to face and get some bloods done.
Katie
hi
I cant get him to take his normal meds so supplements are a no go . He did have a urine infection a few weeks ago , got him antibiotics , they seem to help short term , Doc not keen on face to face consultations , this was all done over the phone . they didn't seem concerned about his condition , no follow up , that's why when he complained of lower arm and leg cramps , no chest and surprising enough no back pain I did think twice on calling out the Medics
I just refreshed my memory on your situation, such a hard situation for you to manage and I guess doctors arn't going over board to help someone who isn't compliant or helping himself.
You could try the tonic water idea, my hubby also eats a banana each day to help with his potassium level and a bag of crisps every so often if he's feeling he needs it. He gets the occasional leg cramp whilst walking and the banana and a teeny bit of salt helps him when he's had them.
If your hubby actually complains about the cramps then you could say well you need to see the doctor, only they can test you and make sure everything is ok.
I really, really feel for you ladies and gents where they are caring for a partner who either can't or won't help themselves. Every day must feel like such a struggle. My hubby has always said he'll do whatever doctors tell him if it would help him feel better - his famous line was if doctor told him to stand on the hospital roof and sing the birdy song he would do it if it got him better.
Stay strong, look after yourself.
Katie
I’m in a better place than in other posts
My grandson has decided he needs to be here with me Really gives me a lot of help knowing he’s here and he’s only 18
I have tried most of what you suggest
plenty of crisps and peanuts and salt in his portage or soup not tried the tonic water though I have persuaded him to drink normal water
Hi
I really feel for you, this is such a difficult situation for you to be in. I can't really add to what Katie has said as her replies are fantastic as always. I am pleased that your grandson is staying with e. What a mature young man he is. Pm me anytime of day or night, I get one hour or less sleep per night due to pain so rest assured I would hear my phone . Take care and stay safe. Lots of love and hugs Lynne xxxx ❤️💜
Thank you ,
Thankfully it was just cramp this time
It was scary at the time though when you know there’s not a lot you can do
Thanks again
Hi Betsie,
Muscle cramps can be a common problem in patients with cirrhosis and it would be a good idea to let the GP assess him and order some bloods.
If you ever need to have a chat our nurse led helpline is open on 0800 652 7330
Best wishes
Trust1
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