Pregnancy question

[Goodbosh007]

My wife has really started suffering from RLS and is trying the hints people give to some success. However she asked me what she can do when she has an attack of RLS. Any tips please??

[bumblebee_tuna]

Standup and walk? There is really not much you can do while on pregnancy (can't take most of the drugs). If the attack is not severe, she might be able to sit down.

[SueJohnson]

Has she had her ferritin checked? If so, what was it? Improving one's ferritin to 100 or more helps 60% of people with RLS and in some cases completely eliminates their symptoms. If not when she sees her doctor ask for a full iron panel. Stop taking any iron supplements including multivitamins that have iron in them 48 hours before the test, don't eat a heavy meat meal the night before, fast after midnight and have your test in the morning before 9 am if possible. When she gets the results, ask for her ferritin and transferrin saturation (TSAT) numbers. She wants her transferrin saturation to be over 20% but less than 45% and her ferritin to be at least 100. If they are not, post them here and we can give her some advice.

Meanwhile some things that can make RLS symptoms worse for some people are alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, sugar, carbs, foods high in sodium, foods that cause inflammation, ice cream, eating late at night, estrogen which is why she is suffering with her pregnancy, dehydration, MSG, collagen supplements, electrolyte imbalance, melatonin, stress and vigorous exercise. Some things that help some people include caffeine, moderate exercise, weighted blankets, compression socks, elastic bandages, masturbation, magnesium glycinate, fennel, low oxalate diet, selenium, 5 minute shower alternating 20 seconds cold water with 10 seconds hot water finishing with hot water for another couple of minutes, hot baths, distractions, , applying a topical magnesium lotion or spray, doing a magnesium salts soak, vitamins B1, B3, B6, B12, D3, K2, if deficient, and potassium and copper if deficient, massage including using a massage gun, vibration devices, using a standing desk, listening to music, meditation and yoga.

Many medicines and OTC supplements can make RLS worse. If she is taking any and you list them here, I can tell you if any make RLS symptoms worse

[Jumpey]

I empathise! I had it during pregnancies too. Definitely get her iron checked.It's likely to be low. An infusion would be best or supplements failing that.

[Madlegs1]

My daughter made up a solution of epsom salts and water ( half and half) and slathered that onto her legs.

It might sting a little for some people, but it did work for her.

BTW. She has never experienced RLS since her pregnancy, apart from briefly in third trimester of subsequent pregnancies.

Hope she gets something to work.

[DicCarlson]

The growth demands of the fetus "rob" iron from the mother. Check with your doctor - iron supplements can help a lot. Also the magnesium as mentioned can help.

[LilMe43]

I had this happen with my first pregnancy. I think it had to do with weakening pelvic floor. After practicing some kegel exercises the RLS went away. Hope this helps!