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Hey RLS world

Posted , 4 users are following.

Udon
Udon

I've been running my mouth off about iron and RLS but I wanted to make it extra clear that I am not advocating iron in any form other than ferrous bis-bisglycinate.  I have tried ferrous sulfate and it does nothing for my RLS.  And I do not advocate taking iron and then sitting back and not looking for other solutions.  Plus I have incorporated potassium in the form of cream of tartar lately for some of my attacks.  I personally would like to reduce my iron stores from 100 to around 50.  Eventually I will try consistently undereating in an effort to get back to where my RLS was when I was in my 30s...mild and infequent...rather than several times a week.

 

1 like, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • RLS-RIP
    RLS-RIP Udon

    Posted

    Udo, your recent summary of what we know about RLS and what you do was the first encouraging thing I've read in a long time. Like you, I am focussed in my reading on what changes when people relax or stand up. So sick of seeing that ubiquitous article about RLS that includes advice like ‘get a good night’s sleep’ (..if only!) or ‘meditate’. Used to meditate twice daily for years – gave it up because it brings on his restless legs! Few people get it.

    My husband is a severe sufferer of restless legs- every day. He gets a couple of days of proper sleep every few weeks. Only drug tried was Lyrica - useful very short term. Long list of other non-drug things tried. Both feel very leery of the Dopamine Agonists. Only long reprieve – 9 months- was with nightly cherries. He will give the 'Iron Bis' a go. We are about to experiment with fasting as I have read that it can increase dopamine receptors. He also has serious Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and may need to go the surgery route. Wondering whether the RLS is actually related to the heart prob.- some research suggests they can match up things like Periodic Limb Movement Disorder with those with thickened left V and it is beginning to be seen as independent risk factor. His BP & heart rate  etc all excellent. Nothing really fits. Thank you so much for your contribution.

    • robgau
      robgau RLS-RIP

      Posted

      Let us know how the fasting goes. Just need to be sure after the fasting to avoid the sugar, caffeine, etc for a while and don't eat anything after 7PM. Leafy greens definitely help with the RLS. Probably the iron and folic acid content and other minerals. Good Luck!
    • Udon
      Udon RLS-RIP

      Posted

      You're very welcome.  Calcium channel blockers, statins and maybe other heart medications can make RLS worse than it has to be.  But your husband probably doesn't have much choice.  Talk to your doctor before starting iron.  I guess one or two before bed can't hurt, but if it helps then you must talk to internist/cardiologist.
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