What is Restless Legs Syndrome?

 

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is almost most always experienced as an irresistible leg movements with uncomfortable sensations: 

¿ Tingling       ¿ Crawling       ¿ Prickling   ¿  Aching

These sensations are often felt deep in limbs and are not to be confused with a cramp or muscle spasms.


Restless Legs Syndrome, which affects women more often than men, makes a person want to get up and walk around, and these symptoms are usually worse at night or at rest:

  • Especially when someone is lying in bed, trying to fall asleep

  • While sitting in a plane, watching television, or in theater or movies

  • Patients have to get up several times during the night or while trying to relax and flex, stretch, stamp and/or shake legs to relieve sensation, causing inability to fall or stay asleep.

Some researchers estimate that RLS affects as many as 12 million Americans. However, others estimate a much higher occurrence because RLS is thought to be under-diagnosed and, in some cases, misdiagnosed.

Causes of RLS

In most cases, the cause of RLS is unknown. A family history of the condition is seen in approximately 50% of such cases, suggesting a genetic form of the disorder. People with familial RLS tend to be younger when symptoms start and have a slower progression of the condition.

In other cases, RLS appears to be related to the following factors or conditions, although researchers do not yet know if these factors actually cause RLS.

  • People with low iron levels or anemia may be prone to developing RLS. Once iron levels or anemia is corrected, patients may see a reduction in symptoms.

  • Chronic diseases such as kidney failure, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and peripheral neuropathy are associated with RLS. Treating the underlying condition often provides relief from RLS symptoms.

  • Some pregnant women experience RLS, especially in their last trimester. For most of these women, symptoms usually disappear within 4 weeks after delivery.

  • Certain medications, such as anti-nausea drugs, anti-psychotic drugs, and some cold and allergy medications, may aggravate symptoms. Patients who experience RLS symptoms should talk with their physicians about the possibility of changing medications.(1)

References
1. National Institutes of Health. "National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Restless Legs Syndrome." http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/restless_legs/detail_restless_legs.htm (2007)
 




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