Reduce AGGRAVATORS

Over the last few years of doing RLS research and observations, I've been amazed at the number of things which are found to aggravate or spur an RLS attack. We still can't say they "cause" the attack, because we don't know exactly what happens in the body that causes an attack. But we can surely see that when certain variables are present, we definitely get an RLS attack.


I highly recommend you fill your "Reduce Aggravators" folder    with observations and information you gather about things which MIGHT aggravate your body and lead to an RLS attack. This might include everything from antihistamines, to prescription drugs, to diet and stress. By avoiding or eliminating some of these aggravators, you will be reducing the size of your RLS "beast" and helping it achieve "bully size".

REVISIT THIS FOLDER!!!! Something that never bothered you before, might suddenly start aggravating your RLS. Do not rule anything out, permanently. Do NOT assume things stay the same. Revisit this folder often, and question, again, whether something new is aggravating your system and causing worse RLS symptoms.


ANTIHISTAMINES This is probably the one "aggravator" which affects almost every person with RLS. There are some people who can use antihistamines without a problem, and they may even find the antihistamine helps. But in most cases, antihistamines lead to severe RLS attacks.

Be aware that many pain killing products are combined with antihistamines. One example would be something like Tylenol PM.


OTHER MEDICATIONS There are many medications which can aggravate RLS. Please visit Dr. Elaty's article (there is a link on the Reduce Panic page). Things to consider are anti-depressants, heart medications, anti-nausea medications, and even many of the medications that are originally prescribed FOR treating RLS.


OTHER AILMENTS Again, visit Dr. Elaty's article. There are several ailments which cause what's known as "secondary RLS". It's sometimes possible to treat the other ailment, and have indirect relief of your RLS.



STRESS Stress can come from many areas. It might be clothing, temperature, fear, and even certain people or situations. Do you get an RLS attack after a holiday meal with the family? Is it the food, or the close quarters, or the conversation? Who knows?



FOOD Certain foods are known to either aggravate RLS or prevent quality sleep. Caffeine is only one example. Some people do fine with coffee or cokes, but others find they need to avoid them, if they expect to be RLS free and/or get to sleep.




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