Is Restless Leg Syndrome Common in pregnancy?

RLS affects 10% of women and up to 40% of pregnant women, making it the most common problem in pregnancy, according to a 2010 study by the University of Michigan. Your genes, hormones and an iron deficiency could be culprits.

What are the main symptoms of the restless leg syndrome?

The main symptom of restless legs syndrome is an overwhelming urge to move your legs. It can also cause an unpleasant crawling or creeping sensation in the feet, calves and thighs. The sensation is often worse in the evening or at night. Occasionally, the arms are affected, too.

What helps with restless legs while pregnant?

What is the treatment for restless legs syndrome during pregnancy?

stopping smoking (this can also reduce the risk of serious pregnancy complications)
doing moderate, regular exercise (such as swimming)
walking and stretching your legs.
relaxation exercises.
using heat pads on the legs, or having a hot bath.

What can you take for restless legs while pregnant?

If you’re low, you can take an iron supplement. In many cases where the supply of iron in the body is low a supplement will be enough to correct RLS. If your RLS symptoms still don’t go away after an iron deficiency has been found and treated, some doctors prescribe opioid (narcotic) medication.

How do you fall asleep with restless legs?

Home remedies for restless leg syndrome

Reduce or eliminate your intake of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco.
Strive for a regular sleep schedule, with the same bedtime and wake-up time every day of the week.
Get some exercise every day, such as walking or swimming.
Massage or stretch your leg muscles in the evening.

What foods trigger restless leg syndrome?

These include coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate. Fattening or excessively sugary foods and beverages such as soda and processed foods should also be avoided. There is some evidence that suggests people who are overweight have an increased risk of RLS, as well as various other health conditions.

Does magnesium help restless legs?

Magnesium supplementation is often suggested for restless legs syndrome (RLS) or period limb movement disorder (PLMD) based on anecdotal evidence that it relieves symptoms and because it is also commonly recommended for leg cramps.

How to deal with restless leg syndrome during pregnancy?

Ways to Prevent Restless Leg Syndrome in Pregnancy Reduce or avoid caffeine: Pregnant women can have about 200mg of caffeine each day. Track your food intake: Sometimes, certain foods trigger RLS. Exercise regularly: Exercising every day may help relieve RLS. Sleep well and on time: Establish a sleep routine and get a lot of sleep and rest.

What are the best drugs for restless leg syndrome?

These drugs usually relieve the discomfort of restless legs syndrome symptoms and improve sleep quality. They include carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet), pramipexole (Mirapex), ropinirole (Requip) and the rotigotine patch (Neupro).

How do you treat restless legs?

Treatment of restless legs syndrome depends on the severity of your symptoms. If your symptoms are mild, simply exercising, stretching or massaging your legs, or taking a hot bath may bring relief. Lifestyle changes also may help, especially following a balanced diet and avoiding caffeine, alcohol and cigarette smoking.

Do antidepressants cause restless leg syndrome?

Antidepressants among the ssri class (zoloft, paxil , (paroxetine) etc) can cause restless legs syndrome. Other causes include anemia, pregnancy, alcohol use and others.

Is Restless Leg Syndrome Common in pregnancy? RLS affects 10% of women and up to 40% of pregnant women, making it the most common problem in pregnancy, according to a 2010 study by the University of Michigan. Your genes, hormones and an iron deficiency could be culprits. What are the main symptoms of the restless…