Potassium & Restless Leg Syndrome

The term Restless Legs Syndrome may sound amusing, but it is not funny to the millions of people who suffer from it. This neurological disorder that relentlessly compels people to move their legs robs people (and their bed partners) of sleep night after night. It can make sitting on a plane, class, meeting or even a theater a trial. RLS sufferers are ready to try anything from prescription medications to supplements and homeopathic remedies for relief.

Prescription Remedies

• Several pharmaceutical remedies for RLS are available, including Mirapex and Requip. Both of these medications are used in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease and are also prescribed for severe cases of RLS. RLS sufferers who use these prescription medications have reported success in stopping the twitching and creepy feelings associated with the syndrome. Side effects including drowsiness, dizziness and nausea have been reported.

Non-Pharmaceutical Remedies

• RLS sufferers who do not wish to rely on prescription medications because of cost or side effects resort to a wide variety of non-pharmaceutical remedies including massage, iron supplements, support hose or compression stockings, tonic water, vitamin E, 5-HTP, folic acid, cold packs, acupuncture, co-enzyme Q, apple cider vinegar, homeopathic remedies, marijuana, calcium supplements, magnesium supplements and potassium supplements either alone or in conjunction with calcium and magnesium.

  Even a folk remedy of putting a bar of soap in bed, under the sheets near the feet, has some supporters.

  Reports of success with any of these remedies are anecdotal, and no clinical proof supports success of any non-pharmaceutical treatment. A cure that works for one person may be totally ineffective for another.

Potassium as RLS Treatment

• Potassium, an essential mineral also called an electrolyte, is necessary for growth. The element also plays a role in nerve and muscle function. Because potassium affects muscle contractions and nerve impulses, it is among the many non-pharmaceutical remedies tried by RLS sufferers. As with the other non-pharmaceutical remedies, success with the use of potassium for restless legs syndrome is anecdotal.

  Potassium deficiency is often the result of urine loss. Patients who require diuretics may be prescribed potassium supplements in conjunction with the diuretic or told to "eat a banana."

  In addition to bananas, other potassium-rich foods include oranges, prune juice and tomato juice, cantaloupe and honeydew melons, beef, chicken, and fish including salmon and sardines. One banana provides the equivalent of one potassium glutamate tablet.

Dangers of Potassium

• Because potassium is plentiful in a well-balanced diet, it should not be necessary to take supplements. As with any dietary supplement, be sure to consult with your doctor before adding potassium. Ask your doctor if he thinks that potassium will help your RLS. Over-the-counter potassium supplements can be dangerous for your heart. If you take potassium supplements for RLS or any other reason, ask your doctor to monitor your potassium level.