What is the treatment for restless legs syndrome (Ekbom's syndrome)?
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Treatment for secondary RLS is to treat the underlying cause such as iron deficiency, etc. However, most people with RLS have primary RLS.
Many people are reassured that they have primary RLS and not something more serious. (Some people with RLS fear that they have a serious neurological disorder.) Simply understanding about the nature of this condition may help to reduce anxiety about the condition. If symptoms are mild then no particular treatment may be needed or wanted. One or more of the following may be advised if the symptoms are troublesome.
Self help measures
One or more of the following may help
- Simple distractions such as reading or watching TV may help if symptoms are mild.
- Sleep hygiene to help improve your sleep patterns. This means:
- Try to get in to a regular bedtime routine of going to bed and getting up at the same time each day.
- Do not nap - especially in the evenings.
- Take some exercise during the day (but not near bedtime).
- Avoid drinks that contain caffeine (a stimulant) before bedtime.
- Try to relax before going to bed. A relaxing warm bath may help.
- A trial without caffeine or alcohol altogether. Reduce or cut out any drinks that contain caffeine such as tea, coffee and cola. Also limit, or cut out alcohol. Try this for a couple of weeks or so to see if symptoms improve. If symptoms do improve, you could then experiment to see what level of caffeine or alcohol causes symptoms. For example, you may not need to cut these things out completely, but just take less than you were used to.
- Consider your medication. If you think that a drug that you take may be causing the RLS, then see your doctor. Do not stop any prescribed drugs without discussion with a doctor who may be able to advise on alternatives.
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Linda Brown, over 2 years
I have been using magnetic straps to ease my RLS, which I've had for at least 10 years. I'm 45. I tightly wrap the Velco'ed straps around my upper calfs at night. My RSL affects both legs, not always together, the right one more than the left. But recently the problem has been getting worse. My straps don't appear to be as effective as they once were. Lost of magnetism perhaps? I've even tried TENS before bed but to no avail. After Christmas (!!) I shall try keeping a caffein/alcohol diary to see if it's worse after a glass or two.
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