restless leg syndrome
(Symptoms)
What is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Types of Restless Leg Syndrome
Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome
- How is Restless Leg Syndrome Managed?
- When Should You See a Doctor?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- This page will help answer your questions about Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS).
- What is Restless Leg Syndrome?
- Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs due to uncomfortable sensations, often occurring at night. In some cases, the arms may also be affected.
- Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in more serious cases, they may significantly interfere with daily activities.
RLS may also be associated with Periodic Limb Movements (PLM), involuntary jerking movements of the legs and arms during sleep.
- What are the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome?
- Uncomfortable sensation in the legs.
Strong urge to move the legs.
Sleep disturbances.
- Temporary relief of symptoms during movement.
Leg twitching.
- Feeling of tingling or itching.
Leg cramps.
Types of Restless Leg Syndrome:
Primary RLS:
- This is the most common form and often occurs without an identifiable medical cause. It may be hereditary..
- This type results from another health condition or external factors.
- Dopamine dysfunction:
- Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain. When nerve cells are damaged, dopamine levels drop, leading to involuntary movements and muscle spasms. Since dopamine levels naturally decline in the evening, this may explain why symptoms worsen at night..
Geneticfactors:
RLS can be inherited, and symptoms often begin before the age of 40.
Causes of Secondary RLS:
RLS can develop as a complication of an underlying medical condition or health-related factors, including:
Iron-deficiency anemia
- Chronic kidney disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Hypothyroidism
- Pregnancy, especially between the 27th week and delivery (symptoms typically resolve within four weeks postpartum)
- Diabetes
- Several exacerbating factors do not directly cause RLS but can worsen symptoms, such as:Certain medicationsAntidepressantsAntipsychoticsLithium (used in bipolar disorder),and Antihistamines.
- Other triggers may include:Caffeine,Smoking, Overweight or obesity and Stress.
- Some studies indicate that affected individuals maypramipexolehave a vitamin D deficiency, andropiniroletreating it might improve the symptoms.
- How is Restless Leg Syndrome Managed?
RLS can be managed through lifestyle changes or medications that relieve symptoms. These include:
- Leg massages.
- Relaxation exercises.
- Applying heat to leg muscles.
Taking a warm bath in the evening.
Regular physical activity (avoid intense workouts before bedtime).
Following a consistent sleep schedule.