I am a Type 1 diabetic who has recently been suffering from leg, foot, toe, ankle, thigh, and even hand cramps so bad that I can hardly stand it. I get the foot and leg and ankle cramps usually in the middle of the night, and then can't sleep. It is almost a nightly occurance. My ankle sort of keeps cramping up, and then it spreads to my toes and calf. It is absolutely unbearable. I am wondering if ANYONE can tell me where to start to find out what is causing this. I have asked my primary doc, endocrinologist, and kidney doctor, and they don't seem to be concerned or know what to do to help me. They have ordered blood work, but it always comes up ok. I take vitamin supplements ( Calcium, Magnesium, B12, Potassium,), and drink 2 glasses of V-8 everyday. ( A newspaper said that this could help). I also put soap in my bed. I do know that when I get dehydrated they are worse, and try to drink enough water. Could the dehydration be all it is, or do I need to see if neuropathy or kidney disease is causing it. I take an Ace Inhibitor for my kidney disease, related to my diabetes. I don't know what to do, and though I am almost afraid to find out what is actually causing them, I need help. I can't stand it anymore. I almost called 911 tonight - the pain was so bad! It is now 5:30, and I have been up since 1:30 fighting these horrible cramps. Please help - what do I do?
This discussion is related to
Severe Muscle Cramping.