How to Care for a Loved One With Restless Leg Syndrome

In many cases, it's the bed partner of the one with restless leg syndrome (RLS) that is the first to recognize the symptoms. It is often difficult for the partner to get a good night's sleep with the frequent jerking and restless movements throughout the night.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Leg pillow support

1. Accept the fact that restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a disorder that your loved one has no control over. It is futile effort, and even may increase symptoms to complain about the disruption of sleep.
2. Support your loved one in making any lifestyle changes required to reduce or eliminate symptoms of RLS. This may require changes in diet, adding exercise to the daily routine and other options as suggested by the physician.
3. Sleep in separate beds or choose a style of bed that has separate support for each side of the bed. There are many beds available where each side is on an independent flotation system or mattress configuration. This keeps one partner from feeling most movements of the other.
4. Take an active role in seeking treatment for your loved one who shows symptoms of RLS. Lack of sleep due to the repeated leg jerking and restlessness can be harmful for both you and your loved one.
5. Recognize the most important care a loved one can give an RLS sufferer is understanding. With persistent determination to find what works, the symptoms can be controlled.
6. Discuss openly the care that's required for maintaining control of the symptoms, such as medication and side effects, sleeping arrangements, diet and exercise changes.
7. Assist your loved one in managing the symptoms of RLS by enforcing regular sleep schedules. Try to go to bed at the same time every night.
8. Encourage taking a warm bath before retiring for the night. Offer to do a gentle massage on your loved one's legs to facilitate relaxation of the muscles.
9. Understand that some RLS sufferers have a reduction in symptoms if their legs are placed in a comfortable position on a leg pillow. Offer to position the pillow where it cradles the legs with proper support.
10. Take care to provide a quiet, relaxed atmosphere for sleep. Don't discuss issues that might increase anxiety prior to going to sleep.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch for signs of increased daytime fatigue and reduced levels of concentration. This symptom can quickly become a safety hazard for you and your loved one.