While not exclusive to those with diabetes, cramp pains that are sudden and unexpected can be a frequent occurrence. That painful cramp and diabetes have an important connection which diabetics should be mindful of. Muscle tissue contains electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium and chloride. Muscles use these electrolytes to contract and relax. When electrolyte levels get low, muscles contract without being able to relax, causing a cramp. Diabetes left untreated allows glucose to build up in the blood, causing electrolyte imbalances, subsequent damage in the nerve cells and muscle cramps. Frequent urination will also deplete the body of these important minerals. People with type 2 diabetes are at risk of drops in potassium level brought on by large amounts of insulin and fluids ingested to treat their diabetes. Cramp problems can then occur. Foot and leg cramps are also caused by poor circulation, a common problem for those with diabetes. Cramp issues may also result from poor hydration. Note that both smoking and drinking cause dehydration, and should therefore be avoided.
Leg Cramp, Diabetes, and How to Get Relief
To prevent or relieve cramps, it may be as simple as eating foods that are high in potassium, such as cantaloupe, sweet potatoes, apricots, bananas, and figs. Other treatments include ibuprofen (Motrin), warm baths, and warm compresses. As diabetics may urinate frequently and potassium can be lost through the urine, potassium supplements may help in extreme cases when potassium rich foods aren’t enough. But you shouldn’t take more than 200 mg. daily, especially if you have diabetes. Cramp sufferers taking ACE inhibitor blood pressure medicines (Enalapril, Lisinopril, Ramipril) should use special caution. Since leg cramps can be due to a calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium imbalance, it’s best to have a doctor test your levels if you have diabetes. Cramp discomfort caused by such imbalances can be effectively treated with certain foods or supplements. Valerian root tea will relax the muscles, and light exercise and a hot shower or bath before bed may reduce the risk of night cramp. Diabetes patients should exercise and stretch to improve circulation, and they should avoid sugars, as this throws off the body’s metabolism and will deplete the energy level in the body.
Muscle Cramp, Diabetes, and Finding Help Online
It is helpful to read what others who suffer from muscle cramps are doing to find relief. Some suggestions from the forum DiabeticConnect (diabeticconnect.com) include drinking plenty of fluids, walking on a cold floor, and tonic water or bitter lemon, as they both contain quinine which is a recommended treatment for those with ‘diabetes cramp’. Other home remedies include apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, and dill pickle juice. Though with any dietary suggestions, it is best to check with your doctor first.
