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ilene k. Family Member

Restless Leg issues / recommended hospitals or drs.

My brother in law received his LVAD a little over a year ago. He has had some issues but seems ok with it. He is slowly recovering - goes to the gym to walk most days and is slowly regaining appetite and strength. Two issues: 1. In the last few months he seems to have Restless Leg syndrome and is not sleeping. Manages to sleep during the day but that impedes his ability to work on his strength, appetite and it has seriously affected his mood, Has anyone experienced anything like this? 2. Medical support for my sister who is the caregiver. When she has questions or needs to talk to a professional, she finds the medical community seriously lacking in response and assistance. She feels like she is out there in the dark. Even the hospital where he was at is not helping as much as before. What can she do - is there a number she can call for someone who will answer her? she is not super computer able. Thank you! Ilene Kelsey
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Henry R.

Hello, I have two comments about sleeping that may help your brother in law. Restless leg, or tossing and turning, can be the result of lacking enough of certain minerals in the diet. There is a delicious remedy -- eat two ounces of nuts everyday. Cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and walnuts are excellent choices. These nuts are rich in magnesium and many other minerals that we all need more of. A lack of nutrients can cause muscle spasms. Secondly, is his mattress comfortable? A firm mattress is good, but can also be uncomfortable on pressure points in the body, causing tossing and turning. A memory foam pad of even one inch in thickness can help solve that issue. I hope these ideas can help.