View Full Version : Restless legs and pregnancy
kholloway
Jan 8, 2007, 11:15 AM
Hi, I am a little over 2 months pregnant, and every time I lie down my legs get all tingly and fall asleep.. or they get itchy, but inside the leg, not on the skin. This has been going on for a few weeks now, and it get really annoying when I can't fall asleep because of it. Has anyone else had to deal with this, or knows why it is caused? Thank you!
eternalxgrace
Jan 8, 2007, 12:54 PM
Hrm, you need to keep fit/healthy thru-out pregnancy. It doesn't need to be like oo I need to go to the gym, but at least a brisk walk to get your heart rate up and blood pumpin. Gentle yoga is great too, I hear. Check local yoga studios for either gentle or pregnancy yoga classes.
How do you sleep? On your side? Back? - maybe try elevating your feet/legs. Or if you sleep on your side, try one of those little leg pillow things they make for sidesleepers. Goes between your knees and makes your hips even/unstrained, the strain could keep blood from circulating? [;) and if you can get someone to, get foot/leg massage occasionally.]
Or, if it still keeps on bugging you no matter what you do, try going to a doc, because there is something called RLS, restless leg syndrome.
pluckyflamingo
Jan 8, 2007, 01:16 PM
My husband has the same leg problem (no he is not pregnant). He has restless leg syndrom, he was constantly awake, where it got to the point he was moving so much I couldn't sleep. Either way he went to the doctor and they told him he had RLS, and he is now on medication which has made him sleep better, and his legs feel great. However, you are pregnant so you might want to talk to your doctor about it, because there is a good chance you won't be able to. But the doctor did tell us other than taking the medicine you need to exercise the correct amount for your body.
kholloway
Jan 8, 2007, 01:32 PM
I'm 5'6 and 130lbs (well, today at least ) but even when I go on a slow and short walk, I get out of breath almost instantly. Some times it gets go bad that I can't even talk while I'm walking (even around the mall). I did yoga and exercised before I got pregnant and never had any trouble breathing, I could even jog. I've been eating healthy and going on short walks, and I walk up 4 flights of stairs to my apartment at least twice a day. I have poor circulation, so I guess this could be causing it. My husband has slept on the couch the last couple nights because I wake up kicking when I finally do fall asleep, because my legs get all tingly while I sleep too. Thank you for all you help, and more advice and help is always welcomed! :)
eternalxgrace
Jan 8, 2007, 02:22 PM
avoid caffeine, it causes blood vessels to constrict. Whether you suffer from hardened arteries or not, eat more fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna). Not only is fish low in fat and high in nutritional value, but it also boosts levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good" cholesterol that purges blood vessels of fatty deposits. For dessert, try pineapple. Studies suggest that an enzyme in pineapple called bromelain enhances circulation while reducing inflammation. Healthful doses of certain vitamins and minerals may also improve your circulation. Vitamin C, vitamin E and niacin, all of which are believed to have a dilating effect on blood vessels, may help to get the blood flowing and make walking less painful. However, consult a doctor or nutritionist before using niacin, as it can cause uncomfortable flushing. Magnesium supplements also may help dilate the vessels and alleviate arterial spasms. Note: Carbonated beverages usually contain large amounts of phosphate, which robs the body of magnesium. - but! Of course as with anything and in any condition, check with a doctor before taking supplements/etc, especially since your pregnant right now. Some things u may need to be careful of and something's u may need more of now. Take regular walks or bike rides to enhance circulation in your legs. Do simple exercises, such as arm windmills, to get the blood flowing elsewhere. And if u feel like adding a bit of extra oomph to an otherwise plain walk, u could hold a waterbottle in each hand or they have exercise gloves that are slightly weighted. Take especially good care of your feet, keeping them warm, dry, and comfortable, as even minor problems can turn to major infections in cases of poor circulation. For people with diabetes, care is even more important.
Make sure that the food you eat is high in fiber and low in fat, and includes plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish. If necessary, supplement your diet with vitamin C, vitamin E, niacin, and magnesium.
If your job requires long hours of sitting, schedule regular breaks into your daily routine; stand up and walk around for a few minutes every hour or so to get blood circulating in your legs and feet.
buggage
Jan 8, 2007, 04:35 PM
Definitely sounds like restless leg syndrome to me... I would talk to your doctor about it.he can tell you for sure, and suggestions as to what can help
kholloway
Jan 9, 2007, 07:17 AM
Thank you all for your help!