The goal in treating restless leg syndrome is to prevent or relieve symptoms, increasing the quality and amount of sleep you receive. If a medical condition or medication is triggering RLS, your physician will treat the underlying condition.
Mild cases of RLS are often treated my making lifestyle changes, which sometimes the periodic use of medication. Daily medication is usually needed to treat severe RLS.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can prevent or relieve the symptoms of RLS. For mild RLS, lifestyle changes may be the only treatment needed. Some of these changes include:
- Avoiding common substances, such as alcohol and tobacco, that can trigger RLS symptoms.
- Adopting good sleep habits.
- Getting regular, moderate physical activity.
Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause or worsen RLS symptoms. Your doctor will advise you whether you should change or stop taking certain medications.
Medicines
If lifestyle changes do not help manage RLS symptoms, your sleep specialist may prescribe medication. No single medication works for everyone, so it may take several changes in the type of medication and dose to find the one most effective for you.