Hi there,
For all those deep knowledge RLS experts: I just discovered that we sufferers cannot use any type of steroid or Beta Blocker because they're triggers for RLS. That sure leaves me in terrible trouble. I am going to need an injection for my sciatica. Beta Blockers are also used for many things, especially heart conditions, right? So what are we supposed to do?
Hello again. I can't find any mention that steroids make RLS worse. I've found at least one article that says a steroid might he good for RLS. So if you need a steroid injection for sciatica, you should be OK.
You're right, beta blockers can make RLS worse and they are used for a variety of things. However, if you were to acquire a condition for which a beta blocker would be used, there are alternatives.
Additionally, we always have to weigh up the relative benefits and costs. If you really needed a particular medicine and the consequences of not taking it were significantly worse than the effect on your RLS, then you'd have to take it.
In 2008 I was off work for six months suffering from acute anxiety. I was prescribed an SSRI from which I really benefited and couldn't have managed without. I also had terrible nervous shaking and took a beta blocker to stop it. This triggered my RLS, but I hardly registered this because my anxiety was so great and the drugs were such a relief from it.
Oh Manerva, I really, really understand how anxiety can just wreck your life. I've been on an SSRI too, and am hoping it's not going to disturb my legs but my anxiety is still pretty intense. Was your anxiety caused by dealing with RLS? As you know, my anxiety is off the charts, and just when I think I can start relaxing and stop worrying about RLS, I get an attack of these muscle spasms in my thigh (although I think we decided it's not RLS). I find it hard to eat, and I don't get much sleep. I probably shouldn't read the submissions on this site, about the agonies people suffer because it haunts me and just tears me apart thinking about them.
But thank you so much for letting me know about steroids, because they are definitely in my future.
How did you ever recover from your anxiety? Are you still taking an SSRI?
The further symptoms you describe are symptoms of anxiety. This may be Generalised Anxiety Disorder or Health Anxiety.
If the former then your anxiety doesn't have any extrinsic cause it's related to what I'd call your "psychological constitution".
If it's the latter then it's focussed on health. Thus is a kind of overfocussing on every symptom and trying to find a disease that explains the symptoms. In your case you're concentrating on symptoms which you think might be RLS. Really, the symptoms aren't the problem, the anxiety is the problem.
I have come across people who have become so anxious about particular symptoms they have persuaded doctors to perform major surgery.
SSRIs won't resolve that it requires some firm of psychotherapy. possibly CBT.
I'm happy to discuss your anxiety, but it may be that being on this RLS site is making your anxiety worse. I suggest you leave it.
My anxiety was caused by work issues and marriage breakdown. I stopped taking the SSRI, retired and got divorced.
Have had steroid injections in shoulder for several years plus use steroid inhaler for asthma and so far no problems
good to know. many thanks.
Thanks again, Manerva, for what is a good target for my anxiety -- health related. I worry each night that my symptoms might start, even though they don't.
I figure the SSRI is for depression and anxiety, something I need. However, I'm not sure it's doing much good.
I am starting CBT, but it's a long process, and can be frustrating. I just came from my meditation class, and that is wonderful. However, much of my comfort comes from those of you with this disease and who are doing OK with it and living your life.
That's the biggest balm to my battered spirit.
Good that you've started CBT.
It will take time but hopefully, you will be able to overcome your dependence on the SSRI.
Have you not been prescribed Gabapentin for your nerve pain? It would calm your nerves and help relieve anxiety as well. It does not interact with SSRIs.
A magnesium supplement might also help.
You might also get more relevant support from another Healthunlocked community.. Follow this link
Almost all SSRI's will make RLS much worse. The only safe AD's to use are wellbutrin, serzone and trazodone.
Source: Dr Mark Buchfuhrer, So. Cal RLS group. (Rlshelp.org).
I have steroid injections every 6 months and have never noticed any worsening of RLS at those times.
My wife's the same! She only has mild RLS, but her six monthly steroid symptoms make no difference to her RLS. They make a significant difference to her pain and mobility though.
big relief, let me tell you. thanks!
Agree. Steroids are not an aggravator for RLS.
Thanks John -- very helpful. Greatly relieved to know this.
I have had RLS for about 30 years. I have also used a beta blocker for about that same length of time (high blood pressure and palpitations). I also recently read about the issue with RLS and beta blockers. I use to take both tablets just before bed. I have now found that I have a better night's sleep if I take my ropinirole at night and my beta blocker in the morning. I have also recently started using compression socks during the day and that helps to relieve RLS symptoms during the day.
excellent advice and good to know.
I’ve taken steroids many times and they’ve never had an effect on my RLS. However, SSRIs have caused worsening of symptoms for me.
I've had at least 10 Cortisone injections over the years for my elbows. Never noticed any worsening of my RLS.
Steroid injections only act locally, very different to tablets
Cortisone injections
Atrial fibrillation
Suitable drugs for hypertension
Does a Cortisone injection in the foot make RLS worse?
RLS and Parkinson's
