Day 3 of Pre-Op Diet...Leg Cramps Anyone?

[LapGyrl 11]

So...I am on day three of my pre-op diet which is low carb, high Protein. For the past two nights I have been tossing and turning and having trouble sleeping due to leg cramps. I cannot stay comfortable. I also have a headache that comes and goes.

I read about ketosis but I didn't think I would have those symptoms this early. I'm cranky as hell because I'm not sleeping. Having trouble concentrating too. I went from my bedroom to the living room 3 freaking times to get a paper and got sidetracked each time and forgot it. How long will this last?

[Donna4545 13]

Have more Protein and more Water. It will probably help.

[SParkle 4]

Are the cramps just at night?

I found this information which might help:

What causes leg cramps?

Unknown cause (idiopathic leg cramps)

In most cases the cause is not known. One theory is that cramps occur when a muscle that is already in a shortened position is stimulated to contract. As the muscle is already shortened, to contract further may cause the muscle to go into spasm. This commonly happens at night in bed as the natural position we lie in is with the knees slightly bent (flexed), and with feet pointing slightly downwards. In this position the calf muscle is relatively shortened and may be prone to cramps. This theory explains why stretching exercises may cure the problem.

Secondary causes

In some cases, the cramps may be a symptom of another problem. For example:

• Some drugs can cause cramps as a side-effect, or make cramps occur more often. These include: diuretics ('Water tablets'), nifedipine, cimetidine, salbutamol, statins, terbutaline, lithium, clofibrate, penicillamine, phenothiazines, and nicotinic acid.
  
• Over-exertion of muscles.
  
• Dehydration.
  
• Conditions that cause alterations in the balance of salts in the bloodstream (such as a high or low sodium or potassium level).
  
• Some people who have renal (kidney) dialysis get leg cramps.
  
• Pregnancy - usually in the later stages.
  
• An untreated under-active thyroid gland.
  
• Peripheral vascular disease (narrowing of the leg arteries which causes poor circulation).
  
• Excess alcohol.
  
• Some uncommon disorders of nerves.
  
• Rare causes include: cirrhosis of the liver; lead poisoning; sarcoidosis.
  

With the above conditions the cramps would just be one of various other symptoms. Therefore, if you are otherwise well, and have no other unexplained symptoms, then the leg cramps are likely to be idiopathic (unknown cause) and not due to a secondary cause.

Note: leg cramps are different to a condition called restless legs syndrome. In this condition the legs can be uncomfortable, you feel creeping sensations in the legs, and it is relieved by walking about. See separate leaflet called 'Restless Legs Syndrome' for details.

What is the treatment for a leg cramp?

Stretching and massaging the affected muscle can usually relieve an attack of cramp. Most cramps soon ease off. Painkillers are not usually helpful as they do not act quickly enough. However, a painkiller such as paracetamol may help to ease muscle discomfort and tenderness that sometimes persists for up to 24 hours after a cramp has gone.

What are the options for preventing leg cramps?

If cramps do not occur often, then no particular treatment is usually needed. However, if you have frequent cramps, you may wish to consider ways of preventing them.

Edited July 23, 2010 by SParkle

[LapGyrl 11]

I'm getting about 70g of Protein and 70oz of Water a day... I need more? I read up on low carb diets and found that within 48hrs these symptoms can occur which is a slight relief because I was getting ready to go in the doc! Here are two links I found helpful:

Ketosis And Weight Loss

WikiAnswers - What are the side effects of ketosis

I haven't had ANY hunger after the first day of the diet and I finally slept well last night. Thanks for listening and the feedback!

[TwoStepsBack 15]

Your symptoms sound very much like how I felt when I gave up caffeine. I felt like someone had been sitting on my legs for hours, and I just couldn't get comfortable.

Has your pre-op diet cut out coffee/tea/coke etc?

Glad you are a little better at least. Hope it goes well! xx

[LapGyrl 11]

No it hasn't. I actually had a coffee Protein Shake on day 1. I do usually have a cup in the morning but I havent recently. It's a shame how our body can get used to that stuff and actually goes through withdrawal.