Restless legs

[Kforsythe]

I have restless legs right before dialysis, during dialysis and when I try to sleep.  It is so frustrating. This is new since I started dialysis.   What I hate about this disease is that people who don't have it think they have the answers.  I have been laying quietly for the past thirty minutes and my legs started to bother so I said something to my husband. His answer ' I think it is in your head because it is only when you are laying down'.  Argggg.  He almost did not keep his head. I know there are people with bigger problems.  I know I am blessed to be alive, but I don't want this either.   I am usually pretty positive, bu this disease has taken so much from me.  I don't feel positive today. Especially when I am told something is just in my head. Thanks for listening.  Thought it better to rant on here than cry for an hour. Reading these boards help me feel not so alone

[Lis]

 There is nothing that makes me see red more than when someone suggests it's all in our head.     I too have RLS, and its always worse at night. Which is typical.  I also get it when I sit too long.  I wanted to take calcium-magnesium supplements but my kidney doctor vetoed it, said the magnesium could become toxic to me. Someone else I know recommends quinine water/soda but not sure if okay. And just yesterday, someone on my FB kidney group recommended an ointment made by Hyland's Homeopathy meds and swears it works. I might try it but I we should cheek with our nephs first.  RLS is really annoying o deal with and causes sleep issues. 

PKD diagnosed 3 years ago
About to have fistula put in
GFR of 13

[PrimeTimer]

Don't know if this will help you folks that have kidney disease and doing dialysis but, I often use a rolled up bed pillow or big bath towel (something somewhat firm and rolled up like a tootsie roll) and place it just under my knees or under the upper parts of my calves when my legs act up at night. Sometimes a heating pad or heated rice bag helps, too. I couldn't imagine having to sit still for 3-4 hours and on-top of that, getting hit with RLS in the chair. I feel for you guys!

[dialysisuser82]

Some patients have worst RLS during dialysis!  I've seen some who could only stand up during the whole treatment.

I have to take clonazepam (Klonopin) to treat the RLS for over 20 years.  It does work.

                         ~ Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance.  ~Samuel Johnson

[Jean]

Wal Mart has a product called Leg Cramps. It works for RLS too and really fast. My neph approved it, and I keep it very handy. It's worth a try.