What is Restless Legs Syndrome?
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What is Restless Legs Syndrome?
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterised by an irresistible urge to move the legs. This urge often occurs in the evening or at night, making sleeping hard. Understanding what is restless legs syndrome involves looking at its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome
The primary symptom of Restless Legs Syndrome is an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. This is usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, burning, or itching.
These sensations typically occur when a person is resting or inactive, particularly in the evenings. Moving the legs can provide temporary relief. Other symptoms include:
- A crawling or creeping feeling in the legs
- Leg twitching, especially at night
- Sleep disturbances due to leg discomfort
- Daytime fatigue from poor sleep
Causes of Restless Legs Syndrome
The exact cause of Restless Legs Syndrome is not always known. It can be classified into primary (idiopathic) and secondary RLS.
Primary Restless Legs Syndrome
When no specific cause is identified, the condition is called primary or idiopathic RLS. This type often runs in families, suggesting a genetic link.
Research has connected specific genes to RLS, indicating a hereditary component, especially when symptoms appear before age 40.
Secondary Restless Legs Syndrome
Secondary RLS occurs due to other health conditions or factors.
These can include:
- Iron Deficiency: Low levels of iron in the brain can trigger RLS
- Chronic Diseases: Conditions like chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease can lead to RLS
- Medications: Certain medications, including antidepressants and antipsychotics, can worsen RLS symptoms
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women, especially in the third trimester, may experience RLS, which usually subsides after delivery
Dopamine and Restless Legs Syndrome
Dopamine is a crucial brain chemical that controls movement and the feeling of rewards. It plays an essential role in managing Restless Legs Syndrome.
Research suggests that issues within the basal ganglia, a brain region that uses dopamine to control muscle activity, are linked to RLS.
Damage to nerve cells in this area can reduce dopamine levels, leading to muscle spasms and involuntary movements. Since dopamine levels naturally decrease in the evening, this could explain why RLS symptoms worsen at night.
Learn more from our dopamine and restless legs syndrome guide.
Diagnosing Restless Legs Syndrome
Diagnosing Restless Legs Syndrome involves a thorough medical history and physical exam.
There is no specific test for RLS, but doctors may use the following criteria:
- An overwhelming urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations
- Symptoms that begin or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity
- Partial or complete relief from symptoms by moving the legs
- Symptoms that are worse in the evening or at night
- No other medical condition that could be causing the symptoms
Treatment Options for Restless Legs Syndrome
Treatment for Restless Legs Syndrome aims to reduce symptoms and improve sleep quality. Options include lifestyle changes, natural remedies, and medications.
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular Exercise: Moderate daily exercise can help reduce symptoms, but avoid vigorous activity close to bedtime
- Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, and practice relaxation techniques before bed
- Dietary Adjustments: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, especially in the evening. Ensure a balanced diet with adequate iron intake
Find inspiration from our lifestyle changes guide.
Physical Therapies
- Leg Massages: Gentle massages can relieve discomfort
- Warm Baths: Taking a warm bath before bed can soothe the legs
- Stretching: Regular leg stretches can help alleviate symptoms
Explore a full list of the physical therapies.
Medications
Always speak with your doctor before starting a new medication for restless legs syndrome.
- Dopamine Agonists: These drugs help increase dopamine levels in the brain and are often the first choice for treatment. Standard options include Ropinirole, Pramipexole, and the Rotigotine skin patch
- Pain Relievers: Mild opiate-based painkillers like codeine, as well as Gabapentin and Pregabalin, can ease painful RLS symptoms
- Sleep Aids: Short-term use of hypnotic medicines like zopiclone or zolpidem can help improve sleep quality
Understanding Restless Legs Syndrome and its various treatment options can significantly improve your quality of life.
Whether through lifestyle changes, physical therapies, or medications, RLS can be managed effectively. Always consult your healthcare provider to find the best approach for your needs.