Lupus muscle cramps/charlie horses

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for sharing that calcium magnesium supplements provided relief for you.

As many already know, Charley horse is another name for a muscle spasm. Charley horses can occur in virtually any muscle, but they are most common in the legs. These spasms are marked by extremely uncomfortable muscle contractions. The muscles don’t relax for several seconds or more, and the pain can be quite severe.

But, did you know, taking diuretics , which are often prescribed for high blood pressure, can lead to low potassium levels. Also, mineral depletion , such as yoo little calcium, potassium, and sodium in the blood, and dehydration can cause these painful muscle cramps.

It is not uncommon for people with lupus to experience muscle aches and pain (myalgias) or have inflammation of certain muscle groups. Muscle pain and muscle tenderness, especially during periods of increased disease activity or flares, occur in as many as 50 percent of those with lupus.

Muscle cramps are not a symptom of lupus. However, lupus cramps may be brought about by complications of the disease and/or medications taken for the disease. Vitamin deficiencies may also bring about lupus muscle cramps and would explain why a calcium magnesium supplement would offer relief.

Thanks again,
Maryann