HOW CAN I TREAT RLS?
In addition to seeking an individualised treatment plan from your GP, you could also try these restless leg soothers:
- GET MOVING: Exercising or stretching your legs in the evening to avoid an RLS attack.
- CUT BACK ON CAFFEINE: As it's a stimulant, caffeine may trigger an increase in restless leg contractions, so consider making the switch to a non-caffeinated herbal tea instead.
- CHECK YOUR IRON LEVELS: Research from Penn State University in the US has found that iron deficiency can trigger nervous system signals to your legs, so ask your GP for a blood test to test your iron levels.
- AVOID SEDATING HAYFEVER MEDS: These can inflame RLS in some people. "If you suffer from hayfever, try using non-sedating antihistamines instead or discuss options like decongestants and nasal sprays with your doctor," suggests credentialled diabetes educator Kristine Bell from Diabetes NSW & ACT.