RLS following aortic dissection
At the start of this year I suffered the serious health calamity of an aortic dissection. Most likely my crushing fatigue, partly caused by the RLS, was a big factor in this.
Given the overriding need to prevent further dissections, I really do need to get on top of the RLS.
Since my six-week stay in hospital, during which time I suffered muscle and nerve atrophy from the prolonged confinement, the RLS seems to have got worse. I say that because I often awake with my legs from the knees downwards, i.e. the calf muscles, stiff as boards.
The physio gave me a set of exercises to work on to help repair the muscle atrophy, which seems to produce results as long as I stick to it
Apart from keeping up with the exercises, does anyone have any suggestions?
I am on Pregabalin for the RLS, prescribed by my sleep doctor, but it doesn't seem to be making any difference and I have run the gamut of medications that are tried out to help this disorder, without really finding one that made a difference.
First and foremost, WOW! I can't believe you are still alive! My Aunt suffered an aortic dissection, was declared dead, kept on life support and some how came back to life. Unfortunately, due to hospital neglect, she ended up dying.
I can't even imagine how terrifying that must have been for you.
I am sorry you have since developed atrophy from being hospitalized. I started to develop atrophy when my health took a major dive back in 2011 after my gall bladder was removed. I'm still slowly building back-up strength. I found low-impact exercises have been the best for me. I also do things like dance around my place because I love dancing and find it's a fun way to work out. Plus way more enjoyable than any normal exercise.
I am sorry to hear that meds haven't been of much help, ugh that's super frustrating. I don't know if something like a combo of two would work, it is something to at least ask your doctor about.
Sorry I couldn't be of more help
🥄🦄 Ray (Team member)
