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Everything You Need To Know About Restless Legs Syndrome
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Treatment for restless legs syndrome
There is no official treatment for RLS, although some medications are prescribed to help relieve symptoms. These include FDA approved dopaminergic drugs such as those used to treat Parkinson’s disease, certain sedative meds, and narcotic pain relievers in extreme cases.
In mild cases, anti-inflammatory medications have also been known to improve symptoms.
However like most drugs, the meds may have side effects which could cause drowsiness during the day. This would not be an ideal situation.
Natural remedies
The treatment for RLS is basically targeted at easing the symptoms. In many cases some lifestyle changes like following a healthy diet, getting some exercise, cutting down on caffeine and alcohol intake have helped to reduce the symptoms.
Several studies have also shown that people with RLS have often shown a vitamin and mineral deficiency, and although more research is needed, certain foods or maybe supplements, are believed to help control the very distressing symptoms.
Here are some vitamins and minerals you may need to get into your system:
- Iron is necessary for good, rich blood flow especially to the extremities like the legs. Foods rich in iron include:
- Liver, meat, and fish
- Iron fortified cereals and eggs
- Beans, nuts, and seeds
- Dried fruit like apricots, prunes, and raisins
- Magnesium helps to relax the muscles and prevent cramps, spasms, and tics. Foods high in magnesium include wholegrains such as brown rice, beans, nuts, and plenty of green leafy vegetables.
- Vitamin B12 and omega 3 both help to curb muscle pain, boost the mood, and help the nervous system to function properly. Foods include :
- Beef liver, lamb or mutton
- Fatty fish like sardines, tuna, mackerel, and salmon
- Feta cheese and leafy green veggies such as spinach
If your diet is somewhat challenged and you are unable to get some of these foods in sufficient quantities in your diet, there are excellent natural supplements available. However, do take care if taking an iron supplement – it can sometimes cause severe constipation.
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