Eating Disorder - Cramps

Ghostface · 11-09-2011, 03:08 PM

I've had cramps in my left leg every day for several weeks now, and it doesnt seem to stop

I've started taking magnesium, but it's not doing much of a difference...It hurts the most when Im not moving(moving usually helps a bit). Not sure what to do, or what's wrong? it can be really painful at times

MissAnonymous · 12-09-2011, 02:34 AM

I can only suggest you see your Dr.

Is the magnesium prescribed [If it is prescribed, go back to that Dr] or bought over the counter? If it is over the counter I would go to your Dr before taking it because its almost impossible to know if you actually need it and even if you do, the chances are its not the only mineral or micro nutrient you're deficient in, in which case you'll need professional advice.

Cramping can be caused by electrolyte imbalances, which is sometimes a problem with ED's, but as you have labelled it I am guessing you know that for yourself.

I find stretching the leg/foot helps alleviate the pain, not moving or laying on limbs can create cramp like pains so try and move your legs every so often to keep the blood circulating.

Ghostface · 13-09-2011, 01:55 AM

No, it's not prescribed(but a nurse recommended me to start taking it though). It's been getting worse the last 2-3 days. In the morning when I wake up my foot is completely numb and I cant move my toes...And it basically switches between being numb and being painful/cramping during the day. I went to se my dr. today, and she said she couldnt really do much except for taking blood tests to check my magnesium, potassium etc. Ill get the results tomorrow.

I've never had problems with electrolyte imbalance before, I don't see why I would suddenly get it now, so I'm not sure what to expect.

[Frostbitten] · 13-09-2011, 07:50 PM

Do you purge? Cramps/Numbness in the extremities can be due to low potassium, often caused by excessive vomiting or laxative abuse.

Or it could be due to low blood pressure.

I would go to your doctor to check; EDs can cause many hidden problems, so if you're getting symptoms that could be a sign that something's really not right. x

Ghostface · 14-09-2011, 12:23 AM

Yes, I purge(and use laxatives)

I went to my doctor as mentioned , and she told me she couldnt do much except for the blood tests. Got the result today and they were all fine...

So I have no idea what to do/think?

I couldnt sleep last night cause it was hurting like hell...

Ghostface · 14-09-2011, 12:31 AM

it switches between tingling/numbness and pain all day...
But now its mostly in my foot and in my toes(I only get the cramps in my leg when Im standing still)... but my foot is aching non-stop

offlineforever · 14-09-2011, 09:38 AM

If you are already seeking medical advice for this we can't give you advice

Ghostface · 15-09-2011, 08:44 PM

No, Im not getting any more help because my blood tests were ok...But Im not OK

Im scared I got nerve damage or something because of my eating disorder

offlineforever · 18-09-2011, 08:41 PM

go back again and ask for help, keep pushing if it is affecting your life

Ghostface · 18-09-2011, 11:33 PM

Yeah, I did...they took some more blood samples to check if Im lacking B-vitamin...Ill hopefully get the result by tomorrow(its only getting more painful it seems). If the blood test turns out OK, ill probably have to do an ultrasound...

Oleander · 18-09-2011, 11:54 PM

Might ask to see how your potassium levels are. I know that for really serious sports people, when they cramp, eating a bunch of potassium (in bananas for instance) seems to clear that up. Even if your blood levels come back all right, you might want to take some potassium suppliments, particularly since I think you mentioned that you purge.

Alternately, if you've broken any bones in your foot in the past, it might be hurting due to weather changes.

Pencils · 19-09-2011, 10:28 AM

Can I just say, please do not take potassium supplements if they have not been recommended by a doctor. High potassium levels are incredibly dangerous.

It may well be that your muscles are hurting because you are not eating enough to supply the muscles with glucose. This can result in lactic acid being produced in your muscles, and this can be painful.
The best thing you can do is try to eat the right amount. You're bound to get complications and problems from restricting your intake.

[Purple_Rain] · 26-09-2011, 11:37 AM

closing this due to the OP having already saught medical advice.