NHS issues ‘2-hour’ rule for anyone with 3 symptoms at night

The NHS has issued a warning to anyone with a strange feeling in their legs during the night. They say that three symptoms could be an indication of a common condition which can affect how we sleep, urging people to follow a “two-hour” rule to avoid it.

According to the NHS, having an uncomfortable feeling at night could be a sign of “restless legs syndrome (RLS)”. While symptoms may vary from person to person, the health service says the three main signs of RLS are a strong urge to move your legs, particularly at night, tingling, throbbing or itching in your legs, and pain in your legs.

As reported by the Mirror, the pain is often more noticeable at night time or during periods of rest. Some people also have symptoms in other parts of the body, including the arms.

People who are struggling to sleep at night due to the symptoms should contact their GP. There are also a number of things they can do at home, including not drinking alcohol for at least two hours before going to bed.

You can try the following at home to see if it helps ease symptoms:

• exercise during the day
• try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
• make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet – use curtains, blinds, an eye mask or ear plugs if needed
• try having a warm bath or using heat pads on your legs before you go to bed
• try walking, stretching or massaging your legs when you’re having symptoms
• try doing things to distract yourself from your symptoms, such as reading or doing a game or puzzle
• get help to stop smoking

You should not:

• have caffeine, such as tea, coffee or energy drinks, after midday
• drink alcohol for at least 2 hours before going to bed
• eat a big meal or do strenuous exercise late at night
• use electronic devices, like smartphones, right before going to bed
• nap during the day

The NHS believes the cause of RLS is related to the levels of iron and the brain chemical dopamine in the body. People may also be more at risk if someone in their family has it.

RLS can also be linked to pregnancy, iron deficiency anaemia and kidney disease. Officials add that certain medicines can also cause RLS.