Restless
Legs Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome (or RLS) is a disorder that
has come to the forefront of attention within the past 5 years.
RLS, which is also called Wittmaack-Ekbom's syndrome, Jimmy Legs
or "the kicks". Restless legs syndrome can sometimes be
confused with Periodic Limb Movement Disorder
(PLMD), which is a sleep disorder. Approximately 80 - 90-percent
of those with RLS also have PLMD, but those with PLMD do not necessarily
have RLS. Confused?
RLS is a form of nocturnal myoclonus characterized by a person
having uncomfortable sensations, primarily in the legs, though for
some symptoms will occur in the arms and other regions as well.
Words people use the typically describe RLS include itchy, creeping,
ants crawling, painful, pins and needles and electricity. RLS usually
occurs both in the daylight hours and at night, though symptoms
generally worsen in the evening.
In order to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of RLS, people may
either voluntarily or involuntarily move their limbs. Stretching,
exercise or some other physical activity such as yoga or massage
will many times relieve the symptoms of RLS.
Restless legs syndrome may be either primary or secondary. Primary
RLS usually has a slow onset between the ages of 40 - 45. Primary
RLS can occur in children, though, and is often misdiagnosed as
growing pains. Secondary RLS most often has a sudden onset and is
associated with specific medical conditions such as iron deficiencies,
pregnancy, varicose vein, diabetes and thyroid problems.
The cause of RLS is unknown and with or without PLMD it often causes
sleep disturbances to such a degree as to cause excessive daytime
sleepiness and tiredness. People with restless legs syndrome often
have difficulty falling asleep and maintaining sleep because of
the uncomfortable symptoms. Relaxation, such as when trying to fall
asleep, will oftentimes worsen symptoms of RLS making for a precarious
sleep situation.
Treatment for secondary RLS mostly involves medications for the
medical conditions that are directly causing the RLS symptoms. Iron
supplements or dopamine agonists such as pergolide, ropinirole,
pramipexole or carbidopa/levodopa are often prescribed. As a caution,
iron supplements need to be prescribed by one's doctor since giving
iron to one who does not need it causes other serious health problems.
Non-medical treatments for RLS may include lifestyle changes such
as starting a low-fat diet and finding the right amount of exercise
to relieve symptoms. Eliminating smoking, alcohol and caffeine may
also be necessary. Some prescription drugs may also bring on the
RLS symptoms so this may need to be investigated and use of alternative
medications may be required.
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