4 solutions to relieve Restless Leg Syndrome

After a busy day, nothing beats getting a good night’s sleep. But what if, when you lie down, your legs start to tingle? Or, have involuntary contractions in the muscles? Spending the night without being able to sleep a wink can be a symptom of Restless Legs Syndrome.

This problem affects about 11% of the population, and is more common in women. According to neurologist Dr. Rodrigo Massaud, from Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, the syndrome is a disease that causes strange sensations in the leg, usually when the patient lies down to sleep. It is a nervous system disorder that causes changes in sensitivity and involuntary movement of the legs (and can also be felt in the arms, in more severe cases). Some people confuse the name with certain repetitive rhythmic leg movements that appear when you are distracted or tense, but they have nothing to do with the syndrome.

Often the cause is unknown. “In some cases, the syndrome appears to run in families. In others, the condition may be linked to other medical problems, such as iron deficiency anemia, where there is too little iron in the blood. Other conditions that increase the risk of RLS include kidney failure, diabetes and pregnancy.

The symptoms are very uncomfortable. These include itching, pain, tingling, chills, twinges, and the need to move your legs. The intensity can vary, and as they are more frequent at night, they prevent the person from sleeping or having a peaceful sleep.

The consequence of this are sleepless nights, which make the person spend the day tired, sleepy, indisposed and irritated. The cause is still unknown, but some experts believe the syndrome may be related to abnormal iron absorption from the brain. And the worst: there is no cure, only drugs to mask the symptoms.

But, before looking for strong remedies, with numerous side effects, how about betting on homemade solutions? You can alleviate the problem with the tips listed below. They will likely help reduce symptoms so you can get your hours of sleep back!

1. Wet your legs with very hot water straight from the shower before going to bed. Scrub well with a loofah, dry and jump into bed!
2. Do squat exercise before bed. You can try 30 repetitions on each leg, alternating from one to the other. In addition to relieving symptoms, this tip will make your thighs even more beautiful!
3. Try homeopathic remedies for restless legs. Inexpensive and with no side effects, these small pills are non-addictive and can help you relieve symptoms. But consult your doctor first.
4. Apply menthol creams or ointments (such as Vic VapoRub). Rub a generous amount of the product into your legs before going to bed. The relief is immediate and will let you sleep soon. The only downside to this method is that menthol has a strong smell, which can be annoying.

If symptoms persist, see a doctor. He will indicate the appropriate treatment for your case. And remember: the consumption of caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes is absolutely not recommended, as it can accentuate the problem.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.