Treatments for Restless Leg Syndrome
Previously published in examiner
Conclusion of the Restless Leg Syndrome series
Most Montrealers complain they do not get enough sleep. Yet, sleep affects are physical and mental health. Not having enough sleep affects our mood, our stamina, our home-life and career, and our social relationships
Sleep is an important human function which is essential for good physical health and good mental health. Even though sleep is so important many Montrealers take sleeping for granted. They either sleep too much or more often than not, sleep less than is recommended for good health. Montrealers will catnap rather than sleep, burn the midnight oil studying, play on the computer, or just insist that they are too busy too sleep.
Treatment for restless leg syndrome
To treat restless leg syndrome your doctor will first determine if the condition is idiopathic or if is secondary. If it is secondary the doctor will look for the underlying cause.
Your doctor will start with a medical examination and medical history. He or she will do a blood test to test for iron deficiency, and other lab tests where necessary. He or she will advise you to eliminate alcohol consumption and to stop smoking. The doctor will advise losing weight if you are overweight and to eat properly, sleep well, and begin exercising. Some patients may even spend a few nights or so in a sleep lab to see exactly what is happening and why.
Medication for restless leg syndrome
Dopaminergic agents
The first medication usually prescribed are Dopaminergic agents which act upon the nervous system.
Side effects
A big side affect that occurs is known as augmentation. What happens is the symptoms relax at night but occur with more intensity during the day. Doctors will then change the medication if this occurs.
Opioids
Other common medications proscribed for restless leg syndrome include a variety of opioids such as tramadol (Ultram).
Side affects
Dizziness, headache, sedation, nausea and vomiting, constipation, or hallucination,
Benzodiazepines
Benzodaazepine such clonazepam (Rivotril in Canada; Klonopin
Side effects
These drugs can cause drowsiness and confusion in seniors during the day.
Anticonvulsants
Reduce the unpleasant sensations associated with restless leg syndrome. Medication such as Neurontin is showing great promise.
Side effects
Dizziness, sleepiness, unsteadiness fatigue, and increased appetite.
Other treatments for restless leg syndrome
Patients have found warm or cold baths, acupuncture, electric nerve stimulation, oral magnesium.
Help for sleep apnea in Montreal click here:
Sources
http://www.medicinenet.com/restless_leg_syndrome/article.htm
http://chealth.canoe.ca/channel_section_details.asp?text_id=1111&channel_id=135&relation_id=12471
Published by Carol Roach
Carol Roach holds a masters in counselling psychology. She worked as a therapist at the Douglas Hospital in Montreal before becoming a professional writer.Carol is the author of the book Picking Up The Piece... View profile
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