When I first went on creatine, about 2 years ago, I definitely had stomach muscle cramping as a result of the creatine. My abdominal muscles (not the stomach itself) would cramp up so badly that it was difficult for me to straighten my torso. This had to be related to the creatine usage, because it started about the exact same time that I started on creatine, and I had never experienced the problem before. Eventually after about 3 - 4 months, the cramping went away (did not have muscle cramps elsewhere in my body), and I have not had the problems since.

However, I have some other unexplained symptoms. For about 12 months, I am passing a lot more water than normal. I now even have to get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. I have always consumed a lot of water, even before the creatine. I really haven't changed my drinking habits. I've heard that the extra water that people take when they are on creatine causes extra bathroom trips, but does creatine on its own cause the kidneys to work harder?

About a year ago, I started taking regular daily doses of L-glutamine. I take anywhere from 2-4 grams 2-3 times per day. Is this related to the extra washroom trips?

Oddly, I have had some slight numbness in the little finger and the side of my left hand for about 1 month. Plus, my physiotherapist has said there is some slight muscle wasting on the side of my hand . My grip has also slightly deteriorated. The conditions have improved since, but I am still not 100%. I may have hurt this as a result of something physical, doing something during weight lifting or maybe on my PC keyboard. The condition seems to be aggravated after biceps work and after heavy days on the keyboard. The reason I suspect it might be related to the creatine is that I have heard rumors that creatine usage can sometimes cause carpal tunnel syndrome like symptoms. Has anyone had any similar experiences?