Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes an irresistible urge to move one's legs. It can be an incredibly frustrating disorder and undoubtedly can disrupt one's sleep. Although we always suggest you consult with your doctor around your condition, we can share that some of the common symptoms of RLS include:
- An unpleasant, creeping, or tingling sensation in the legs
- A strong urge to move the legs, especially when sitting or lying down in bed
- Walking and stretching relieves symptoms for a while
- Symptoms worsen at night and may interfere when in bed
- Symptoms are worse in cold weather and after periods of inactivity
The exact cause of Restless Legs Syndrome is unknown but there are many theories about what might be triggering it. These include iron deficiency, sleep deprivation, diabetes, obesity, or other hormonal changes, kidney disease and certain medications. As we get older, RLS can develop more easily, and women who have been pregnant may be more likely to develop Restless Legs Syndrome after delivery as well. As always, we are not medical professionals and always recommend you speak to your doctor to understand your potential cause of your RLS.
Reducing Restless Legs Syndrome
There are many ways in which you can reduce Restless Legs Syndrome like ensuring that you have enough iron in your diet. This will help to keep the levels of ferritin high, which is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Another way is to ensure that you are getting enough sleep and exercise. This will help to reduce the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome and give you more energy throughout the day. A third way is to manage your stress levels as best as possible. There are many ways in which this can be done, including meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Best Sheets for Restless Legs Syndrome
There is also a much simpler way to reduce Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms, and that is to consider the sheets you sleep on in bed. The best sheets for Restless Legs Syndrome are made of cotton and have a high thread count. These bed sheets tend to be more breathable and comfortable as the higher the thread count, the softer the sheets will be on your skin, which will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable when you sleep in bed. Kitelinens are made with 100% cotton from Portugal and a 300-thread count, creating the optimal sleep environment for those with Restless Legs Syndrome.
Adding a weighted blanket to your bed can also help with Restless Legs Syndrome when you sleep. This is because the sensation of the blanket on your legs may override that restless leg feeling. Do be mindful that a weighted blanket is not for everyone including small children (ages two or younger) or the very frail elderly. Older adults and parents of children should check with their doctor before trying a weighted blanket on their bed.
We recommend thinking about the sheets for Restless Legs Syndrome first, then consider adding additional covers thereafter.
Kitelinens are specially made to offer a combination design elements that no other luxury sheet brand offers:
- Deeper pockets on fitted sheet
- Extra-long length
- All around elastic on fitted sheet
- And of course, a top sheet that won’t come untucked
While you may find other types of cotton sheets with one or two of these features, you won’t find another set with Kitelinens’ unique design elements. The special design elements offer several key benefits for better sleep, better wake-ups and better days. In addition to helping aid in the reduction of Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms, using Kitelinens means:
- You Only Tuck Once. An easy-on top sheet design that means you don’t have to bother tucking the sheet in along the entire perimeter of your bed every morning.
- No more “sheet hogging.” Is your partner an active sleeper who unconsciously steals the covers in the middle of the night? The unique dual-side slits and extra-long design of Kitelinens puts an end to sheet hogging while still being cuddle-friendly.
- No more trapped toes. Hate that feeling of trapped toes? So do we. Kitelinens sheets give your toes and feet the freedom to move without constriction, all while staying on the bed throughout the night – great for anyone who likes to sprawl out in bed or sleeps hot.
Other Tips for Better Sleep
Aside from Restless Legs Syndrome, here are some important tips to take into consideration for getting a good night’s rest:
- Don’t overlook the importance of sleep position. According to experts at Johns Hopkins, sleep position can affect back and neck pain, snoring and sleep apnea, acid reflux and heartburn and even skin appearance.
- Keep your bedroom clean and organized. See our tips on doing that easily here.
- Keep your bedroom dark, cool and “cave-like”. Most doctors recommend keeping the thermostat set between 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit for the most comfortable sleep.
- Use Kitelinens for your bed. Spend less time making your bed in the morning and more time getting your recommended hours of Zz’s with Kitelinens. They’re great for kids, teens, adults and older people alike. And, those with Restless Legs Syndrome!
You can learn more about RLS from the Cleveland Clinic. Any questions about RLS should be discussed with your doctor.
Don’t forget our 4th of July sale! All Kitelinens sheet sets are on sale between now and July 4th - take $25 off all sets. Discounts are automatically applied at checkout and applies to King sets, Queen sets, Full sets and Twin sets. All sets are currently sold in white with new colors coming this Summer 2022.