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Suggestions for restless leg syndrome?

Page last modified on: October 16, 2008

Question from MBJ: I get restless leg syndrome that keeps me awake. Any suggestions to help with this?: Answers —Helena Schotland, M.D.: Restless leg syndrome is an uncomfortable sensation in your legs that feels better when you move them. Restless legs can be associated with periodic limb movements of sleep, which are basically limb movements that cause someone to wake up from sleep. Restless leg syndrome occurs during the day while someone is awake. Both restless legs and/or periodic limb movements of sleep can be treated with a variety of medications. It is also important to assess whether that individual has any elements of iron-deficiency anemia, which can be associated with these disorders.; Marisa Weiss, M.D., Breastcancer.org president and founder: During this evening's program we mentioned a number of medications that you may consider with your doctor. All medicines need to be reevaluated over time, as they have benefits and side effects that can affect each person uniquely. Some of these medications may only be needed for a short period of time, and other medicines may be required over the long haul. Be sure to only take medications with your own doctor's supervision. It's really not in your best interest to borrow medications from somebody else when it comes to any issue, including sleep. Going through breast cancer disrupts so many of the rhythms and rituals in your life, and change alone can take away the quality of your sleep. Whatever you can do to reestablish a routine in your life and find regular ways to relax, enjoy yourself, and find meaning will all help to recapture a healthy sleeping pattern. Good night, and get to sleep!

On Wednesday, January 17, 2007, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Sleep Well: Healthy Habits for Good Rest. Helena Schotland, M.D. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about ways to improve your sleep.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Helena Schotland, M.D. specializes in sleep medicine and is the director of the Pulmonary Diagnostic and Wellness Center and the co-director of the Sleep Laboratory at Bryn Mawr Hospital in Pennsylvania.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.

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