RLS: Things You Should Avoid

Just as there are certain treatments that you should consider if you have restless legs syndrome, there are also certain things that you should avoid in order to feel better sooner and prevent more severe symptoms.

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You should avoid the following habits if you have restless legs syndrome:

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• Caffeine and alcohol. These may make your symptoms worse.
• Certain medicines. Some prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines (such as cold and sinus medicines) can make symptoms of RLS worse. If you think your symptoms get worse after you take a certain medicine, talk to your doctor.
• Being confined for long periods. Try to plan for times when you will need to remain seated for long stretches. For example, if you are traveling by car, plan to make some stops so you can get out and walk around.
• Excessive exercise. Although moderate exercise may help relieve symptoms, unusually intense workouts may make them worse. Try to figure out at what level exercise helps and at what point it triggers restless legs syndrome.

See your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, if they become worse, or if they significantly interfere with your sleep and daily functioning.

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