Tip no 1. Avoid the triggers
Avoiding known RLS triggers is a smart first step to overcoming the problem. In this article and coming articles, you will find a list of self-help tips for relief against Restless Leg Syndrome.
Stress Management
RLS symptoms tend to get worse when you’re anxious and overwhelmed. Anything you can do to keep stress in check will help, including such as meditation and deep breathing.
Cut back or eliminate alcohol
Tough one when you enjoy a glass or few of wine in the evening. Alcohol is known to worsen the symptoms of restless legs, so be cautious about drinking in the evening. Alcohol also disrupts sleep, so you’re more likely to experience a restless night.
Tip no 1. Avoid the triggers
Avoiding known RLS triggers is a smart first step to overcoming the problem. In this article and coming articles, you will find a list of self-help tips for relief against Restless Leg Syndrome.
Stress Management
RLS symptoms tend to get worse when you’re anxious and overwhelmed. Anything you can do to keep stress in check will help, including such as meditation and deep breathing.
Cut back or eliminate alcohol
Tough one when you enjoy a glass or few of wine in the evening. Alcohol is known to worsen the symptoms of restless legs, so be cautious about drinking in the evening. Alcohol also disrupts sleep, so you’re more likely to experience a restless night.
Don’t over exercise
It’s imperative for a number of reasons why exercise is crucial for our health and state of mind. While moderate daily exercise can significantly ease RLS symptoms, it’s important not to overdo it.
Strenuous exercise can sometimes exacerbate the symptoms of RLS, especially close to bedtime, so avoid exercising to the point where your joints or muscles become painful or ache.
Stop smoking
Yes smokers, yet another reason to give up on that ghastly habit. Nicotine is a stimulant that impairs blood flow to muscles and can make restless legs worse, so it’s best to avoid cigarettes, vaporizers, and e-cigarettes (which according to research aren’t any better than cigarettes).
Caffeine intake
We are definitely not about to tell you to quit drinking coffee. But for some people with RLS, caffeine is a trigger. However recent research shows that it may actually benefit others. Best is to experiment with it by try cutting out/or reducing coffee, tea, and energy drinks and monitor your symptoms.
Check your medicine cabinet
It’s understandable that this can be overlooked. There are many common medications – both prescription and over-the-counter – that can trigger the symptoms of RLS or make them worse. Make sure to research what you’re taking in case its also a trigger.
Vitamin deficiencies
This is another overlooked trigger. Next time to you visit your doctor, ask to have your blood tested for a lack of iron and vitamins. These are common ones to look out for:
• Iron. Iron deficiency (anemia) is a well-known cause of RLS. So ask to be tested for this. Alternately, supplementing with iron can improve RLS symptoms in those who are anemic.
• Folic Acid. Folate deficiency has been linked to RLS which could explain why restless leg syndrome is common in pregnant women. Folate plays a key role in healthy fetal development. When folic acid is low, B12 typically is as well. So you may want to try supplementing with a B complex.
• Vitamin D. Recent studies show that RLS symptoms are more frequent and more severe in people with vitamin D deficiency. Your doctor can easily test your vitamin D levels or you can simply make a point to get more sun if that’s possible. Just be sure to wear sunscreen.
• Magnesium. This can improve sleep and some studies have shown it to be beneficial for restless legs. Try experimenting with magnesium supplements at bedtime to see if your symptoms improve. It seems 250 – 500mg is about the right dosage.
Look out for future articles at www.mattressking.co.za that go further into self-help remedies for relieving RLS.