Leg pain

[Littlelizzy11]

Hi all I have liver cirrhosis and although I'm now doing really well and my liver is getting better, I have a new symptom. Well it's been going on for a while. I have cramp/pain in my legs. I've gained 1 1/2 St after being very under weight. I can now exercise much more and I wonder if its linked to that? Any advice would be great xx

[Aotea2012]

Muscle cramp is unfortunately very common in cirrhosis. When I was first diagnosed in March 21 I had terrible muscle cramps. As my condition has improved as a result of no alcohol, good diet and exercise I’ve found the cramps have gone too. The only time I get them now is if I’ve not done any exercise for a few days. I find my muscles seize up a bit and an awkward move will bring them on. I apply some warmth to the muscle - towel that’s been soaked in hot water is great- and gently stretch. It normally resolves it. I suspect you are recovering and your body is taking time to get back to normal. Keep doing the exercise and I suspect it will eventually go.

[Littlelizzy11 in reply to Aotea2012]

Thank you so much x

[AyrshireK]

Cramp can be a sign of mineral deficiencies - common in cirrhosis. Often it's potassium or magnesium - try to get more of these in your food i.e. bananas etc. Some blood tests including your mineral levels would be a good idea. Don't buy any over the counter minerals as it can be dangerous to supplement if you're not deficient.

Katie

[Littlelizzy11 in reply to AyrshireK]

I've been told not overdo the potassium due to the tablets I take. However I have a banana at night time to support my liver during sleep x

[Shep666]

hi

Dehydration caused me lots of cramps (once mineral issues were sorted via medication). Lots and lots of water has sorted me 👍

[Littlelizzy11 in reply to Shep666]

I'll give that a try x

[Cb1963]

Never had cramps as such, but had leg spasms or muscles twitching, I was a chronic alcoholic and deprived my body of vital vitamins mainly because I didn't eat while drinking, I've got neuropathy from the drinking, it causes pins and needles, burning sensations and find sleeping difficult , it's essential to eat a healthy diet, don't smoke, and above all else don't drink 👍, neuropathy is damaged nerve endings and I've been like this for over 12 years, its been a painful experience if that's the right thing to say, hope this helps, best of luck 👍 😀

[Littlelizzy11 in reply to Cb1963]

Thank you xx