RLS info from Oz

[Guest guest]

I just received a couple of clippings from a cousin in Australia and am passing

them on without further comment.

1. Soap Story. My husband, who has had several heart attacks, suffers from a

condition known as restless leg syndrome. The discomfort used to wake him

almost every hour during the night. Because of the medication he's taking for

his heart complaint, the doctor could not prescribe further drugs. We tried

everything else without success, until I read that putting a cake of soap in the

bottom of the bed sometimes helped. I did this without telling my husband.

Several peaceful nights followed and he has slept undisturbed ever since. I

don't know what the soap does. All I do know is that it works. Maybe my letter

will help other sufferers. Signed: S. Speechley, Birkdale, Qld.

2. This one is from a newspaper column titled What's Up Doc? with Dr.

Jumpy Legs. You often print bits about " restless legs " . I am 82 years

old, and recently underwent a major operation which was successful. However, for

two years, I couldn't sleep due to eternally jumpy legs. Doctors prescribed all

kinds of medication with little benefit. I had tests and my haemoglobin was

only 85 grams per litre, so I was prescribed a long-acting iron and folic acid

capsule. Now my blood is 122, jumpy legs " cured " and I have never felt better

in my life. Is this a common cause?

Answer: A haemoglobin of 85 grams per litre means anaemia. Simple medication

is often dramatically effective. Vitamin C also aids iron absorption. With

this fixed, you must feel better, as more oxygen reaches all organs, including

the muscles, which suddenly don't twitch any more.

Jeanne and Mr. Biggles in Poultney VT

(wonder what kind of soap she used?????)