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My RLS Story

Joylou's avatar image

By Joylou

Last Updated:

1 min read

I'm not sure if my story will help anyone, but I hope so. I have secondary restless legs syndrome (RLS) because I have rheumatoid arthritis. I have had rheumatoid arthritis for over 35 years. I am now 71 and my RLS started up 3 years ago. It was miserable at first and, until 6 months ago, it disrupted my sleep every night.

Nighttime routine

After trying numerous things, I developed a nightly routine that has improved it. I have always been a light sleeper, so I take an over-the-counter sleep aid every night. I take 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt in 1/2 cup of warm water about 30 minutes before I go to bed. I also take a gummy that has 20 milligrams of CBD with THC. In addition, I take a magnesium supplement at bedtime.

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Sugar, prescription medicine, and daytime help

I have cut out almost all sugar and now eat gluten-free. Sugar is a big trigger for me! I am doing much better. I also take 1 milligram of ropinirole now. I still wake up occasionally during the night, but it is usually when I have sugar. During the afternoon, I like to read and my RLS will often start. When that happens, I will take over-the-counter Hylands Restful Legs and that stops it.

You can see I do take a lot of different things, but it works for me. I hope my story helps someone. Good luck to all. RLS is really hard to deal with!

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