[31F] Experiencing muscle cramps and excessive sweating

Patient Description

A 31-year-old female presents with muscle cramping in hands, calves, sternum, and feet, with hand cramps causing fingers to lock in place. These symptoms have been occurring for 6 months, predominantly at night, and are associated with excessive sweating, particularly during sleep and at work. The patient is a nurse and notes that the symptoms are exacerbated in a work environment. Despite being in a cool room with a fan, the sweating is significant enough to drench clothes. The patient also reports chronic insomnia, even while on 100mg of Seroquel, and averages 2-4 hours of sleep per night. Additional symptoms include body fatigue, mental fog, irritability, increased anxiety, and depression. The patient has a history of ADHD, Crohn's disease, anxiety, and depression, with ADHD diagnosed at 28 years, Crohn's at 24 years, and anxiety and depression since adolescence. The patient is currently on Effexor ER 150mg, Seroquel 100mg, Vyvance 50mg, Adderall 15mg, and Singulair 10mg, all taken once daily. Stelara injections for Crohn's disease cause mild nausea and fatigue for a few days post-injection. There is no known family history of thyroid or endocrine disorders, and the patient has an adverse reaction to Imuran.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Hyperthyroidism: This is a condition where your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which can cause symptoms like excessive sweating, feeling hot, insomnia, and muscle weakness or cramps.

    • Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism typically involves blood tests to measure the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your body.
    • Treatment for hyperthyroidism usually involves medication to reduce the production of thyroid hormones, and in some cases, surgery may be required.
  • Anxiety Disorder: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including muscle tension, sweating, and difficulty sleeping. Given your history of anxiety and depression, it's possible that your symptoms could be related to these conditions.

    • Treatment for anxiety disorders often involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
  • Side effects of medication: Some of the medications you're taking, such as Effexor and Seroquel, can cause side effects like sweating and muscle cramps.

    • If you suspect that your symptoms may be related to your medication, it's important to speak with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.

What you can do

In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

  1. Try to stay cool: Since you've noticed that being in a cool area with a fan helps to reduce your sweating, try to stay in cool environments as much as possible.
  2. Stay hydrated: Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration, so make sure you're drinking plenty of fluids.
  3. Practice good sleep hygiene: This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine and large meals before bed, and making your sleeping environment as comfortable as possible.
  4. Relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Severe muscle weakness or paralysis
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe anxiety or panic attacks
  • Any other severe or worsening symptoms

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include excessive sweating, feeling hot, insomnia, muscle weakness or cramps, rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and nervousness or irritability.


Can anxiety disorders cause physical symptoms like muscle cramps and excessive sweating?

Yes, anxiety disorders can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including muscle tension, cramps, excessive sweating, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms are often related to the body's stress response.


What are the potential side effects of medications like Effexor and Seroquel?

Effexor and Seroquel can cause side effects such as excessive sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, drowsiness, and changes in appetite or weight. It's important to discuss any side effects with your doctor.


How can I improve my sleep hygiene to manage insomnia?

Improving sleep hygiene involves maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, avoiding caffeine and large meals before bed, and engaging in relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before sleep.


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