Living With Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is often a lifelong
condition. Symptoms may come and go often or go away for long periods. Symptoms
often get worse over time.
If a condition or medicine triggers RLS, the
disorder may go away if the trigger is relieved or stopped. For example, RLS
that occurs due to pregnancy tends to go away after giving birth.
Although RLS has no cure, treatments can relieve or
prevent RLS symptoms. Mild cases of RLS often are treated with lifestyle
changes and sometimes with periodic use of medicines. More severe RLS usually
is treated with daily medicines. (For more information, see
“How Is Restless Legs Syndrome
Treated?”)
Ongoing Medical Care
If you have RLS, see your doctor regularly so he or
she can watch for changes in your symptoms. This will show whether your
treatment is working and whether it will continue to work over time.
Call your doctor if you notice your treatment is no
longer working or if you have new symptoms.
Other Considerations
Try to plan long car trips and other long periods of
inactivity at the times of day when your symptoms are least severe. Give
yourself time to stretch or take walking breaks.
Choose an aisle seat at the movies or on airplanes
and trains so you can move around if needed.
Consider finding a work setting where you can stand
or walk around.
Support Groups
Many people who have RLS find it helpful to join a
support group, such as those that the
RLS Foundation offers.
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