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Use of Alcohol and Caffeine - Both alcohol and caffeine have been found to aggravate the symptoms of restless legs syndrome and should be avoided completely or reduced to the greatest extent possible.

Aggravating Medications - Certain medications may aggravate the symptoms of restless legs syndrome including neuroleptic (antipsychotic) drugs, lithium, and antihistamines, antinausea medication, and antidepressants. If you are currently taking any of these medications, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of switching to other medications that will not aggravate the symptoms of restless legs syndrome.

Exercise - regular moderate exercise may alleviate symptoms but excessive exercise may intensify symptoms.

Smoking - The effect of smoking on aggravating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome has not been established with any degree of certainty. Nevertheless, if you smoke, talk with your doctor about starting a smoking cessation program for improving your health in general.

Hot baths, muscle stretching, and moderate exercise may help to better control the symptoms of restless legs syndrome and when done before bedtime, may promote relaxation and sleep.

Eating balanced meals with attention to proper nutrition may be beneficial for patients with restless legs syndrome. Health care providers may also suggest vitamin supplementation if needed.

Maintaining a busy and active lifestyle, including participating in social activities, may also be useful by diverting your attention and concentration away from the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Some patients with restless legs syndrome find that if they must be sedentary, they engage in mind games or activities such as crossword puzzles, videogames, or reading exciting novels reduces the severity of the symptoms or relieves them.