Common Family Health Concerns: Seeking Advice from a Doctor - Family Medicine

Dr. Huang Mingde reply Family Medicine

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1.
Your mother's issue may be due to calcium deficiency or temperature fluctuations (I have attached an article for your reference).
Do you experience calf cramps? Recently, a friend from a computer company asked me about cramps, specifically why calf cramps occur at night and why they are more common in summer.
Generally, cramps can occur in various body parts, most commonly in the arms, calves, thighs, and abdomen; they are usually brief and not prolonged.
The term "cramp" typically refers to a localized phenomenon, without accompanying symptoms in other areas or generalized muscle cramps.
If there is a fever (39°C) along with generalized cramps, it could indicate heat cramps (which commonly occur in children under 5), heat exhaustion, or a neurological condition.
Generalized cramps or those accompanied by other symptoms (such as temporary loss of consciousness) may be caused by epilepsy or brain disorders.

Cramps are defined as sudden, powerful contractions of muscles, often accompanied by severe pain and restricted movement.
Possible causes include: 1.
Fluid loss or electrolyte imbalances 2.
Metabolic disorders 3.
Neuromuscular disorders 4.
Excessive muscle exertion 5.
Poor local circulation 6.
Changes in environmental temperature, especially significant temperature differences between day and night in summer (generally, a difference of more than 7°C between internal and external temperatures increases the likelihood).
Nighttime calf cramps in summer are often due to this reason.

Cramps are more likely to occur in summer (typically in the afternoon or during sleep) not only because of high temperatures but also due to increased physical activity and outdoor exposure, leading to greater fluid and heat loss, which can fatigue the muscles.
Cramps while swimming are particularly common, often due to inadequate warm-up before swimming, combined with unfamiliarity with the environment, which increases the risk.

When experiencing cramps, based on my past experience of calf cramps in a swimming pool, I recommend stopping swimming, floating in a "jellyfish" position, and using both hands to grasp the toes of the affected leg to stretch it out (with the knee joint extended).
For nighttime calf cramps, try standing and leaning against a wall, bending the foot towards the calf at a 90-degree angle or less.
After a cramp, it is advisable to stop exercising, adequately hydrate, replenish electrolytes, and apply local heat.
If necessary, consult a physician for pain relief medications and muscle relaxants to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles.

Clinically, how can we prevent cramps? 1.
Individuals who exercise or swim should perform warm-up exercises for the muscles involved.
2.
Avoid swimming in excessively cold water.
3.
Avoid overexertion or sudden increases in exercise intensity.
4.
Do not swim on an empty stomach, immediately after eating, or after intense exercise.
5.
Stretching exercises, especially for the calf muscles, can be done before bed.
6.
Regularly consume foods rich in magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
7.
Keep the lower limbs warm before sleeping, possibly by sleeping on the right side to prevent cramps due to poor circulation.
8.
Those who sweat excessively in summer (during exercise) should add a little salt to their drinks or consume sports drinks.

In summary, cramps can generally be prevented or self-managed using the methods mentioned above.
However, it is emphasized that frequent or prolonged cramps (which are considered spasms) require prompt medical attention or emergency care.

2.
Your younger sister's symptoms seem unusual; a clinical examination and medical history inquiry are necessary for diagnosis.
It is advisable to suggest a visit to an outpatient clinic for evaluation.

3.
For a runny nose, first check if the mucus is yellow.
Observe if it is accompanied by sneezing or if there is a history of asthma, as these factors can help determine the underlying condition.
It is recommended to visit an ear, nose, and throat specialist for a definitive diagnosis.

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Reply Date: 2003/08/04