muscle cramps or something else..

[lacrymosa]

For the past couple months I experience sharp, stinging (or maybe burning) pain in my calf, usually right leg but sometimes left too.
I've been walking long distances my whole life and never had cramps before. Been doing some reading and so far symptoms fits cramps.
I have lately been walking really long distances on occasion.

I have the pain happening at night. I wake up with badly aching leg (calf muscle) and need some time time for it to lessen, sometimes I fall asleep seconds later and when I wake up the muscle is stiff and painful. It's also bit painful/sensitive at touch on other days too.

I wonder what's wrong, if at all, and what to do.

Thanks in advance!

[Foggy2]

This is true about bananas, however if someone is severely deficient in potassium, they very often require supplements which need a doctor's prescription.

Prior to starting any of these supplements or changing your diet, I would suggest that you see your doctor to be evaluated and have blood work done.  If you make changes and start taking supplements and change your diet before this, your doctor will not have a baseline of were you were when you started having the symptoms.  So please call you doctor and make an appt.

[jemma116]

Bananas are full of potassium.

[Foggy2]

If you start the Magnesium, start at 400 mg once a day or it may give you diarrhea and bloating.  Also take it an hour before bedtime.  Calcium comes in 2 forms; either is fine.  Potassium you usually need a prescription for, but it is best to have a blood test done because too much or too little can affect your heart and kidneys.  I suggest you see your doctor to be worked up and have lab work done.

[jemma116]

You may be lacking in any or all of these:  magnesium, calcium and potassium.

Make sure that you drink plenty of water so that you do not become dehydrated and try a supplement of magnesium and take as directed on the packet.