PLMD and RLS treatment options

We explored the causes and symptoms of two similar and serious sleep robbers: restless legs syndrome (a/k/a restless leg syndrome, RLS) and periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD). Now, we’ll review the treatment options for each – and which treatments may be problematic if you also have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Talk with your doctor about which treatment(s) are right for you.

RLS treatment options

There is no cure for restless legs syndrome (RLS). But there are several treatment options shown to reduce or even eliminate its symptoms:

Treating your other medical conditions: For those with a mineral deficiency; kidney, thyroid or Parkinson’s disease; neuropathy; diabetes or varicose veins, talk to your doctor about whether treating these conditions could also alleviate your RLS symptoms.¹

Lifestyle changes: If your symptoms are mild (not painful and at most once a week), cutting back on caffeine, alcohol and tobacco products; exercising; massaging your legs and/or taking hot baths before bed may help reduce symptoms.¹ Talk to your doctor about whether these options might help you.

Medication: Whether your symptoms are mild or moderate/severe (painful and/or 2+ times a week), doctor-prescribed drugs may help reduce your pain and help you sleep easier despite your symptoms. But like with all drugs, these could cause serious side effects – especially when taken with certain other medications. When you talk with your doctor about medication, be sure to discuss:

• Any other medications, vitamins and other supplements you’re taking for any reason, as they may interact dangerously with certain RLS medications.
• How certain medications may affect your sleep apnea symptoms.
• **If your apneas (AHI) increase after taking an RLS medication or any other drug/supplement, tell your doctor right away.**

PLMD treatment options

There is no cure for periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD). But there are several treatment options shown to reduce or even eliminate its symptoms:

Medication: PLMD is most often treated with doctor-prescribed drugs that are very powerful, and can cause various side effects. As with any medication, it’s very important that you discuss with your doctor:

• Any other medications, vitamins and other supplements you’re taking for any reason, as they may interact dangerously with certain PLMD medications.
• How certain medications may affect your sleep apnea symptoms.
• **If your apneas (AHI) increase after taking an PLMD medication or any drug/supplement tell your doctor right away.**

Things to avoid

Caffeine products can worsen PLMD symptoms.² Try to reduce your intake of caffeine products (e.g. chocolate, tea, coffee – even decaf coffee, which still has plenty of caffeine in it) and avoid these foods at night.

Again, talk to your doctor as soon as you think you’re showing PLMD or RLS symptoms and, if diagnosed, what treatment options are best for you.