Restless Leg Syndrome: Signs and Treatments

Sure, Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) may sound like a funny name for a health condition, but the condition can be quite serious. Restless legs syndrome is a recognized neurological sleep disorder, and those who suffer from the disorder are plagued with irritated insomnia, which in turn can disrupt overall lifestyle and well-being. If you are curious as to whether or not your twitchy legs might be indicative of this relatively common (it affects about one in every ten people) disturbance, then this article is for you. Here are the signs and treatments of restless leg syndrome:

Sign and symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
It seems that symptoms of this condition are most prevalent at night, and when you are trying to sleep. If you find that odd sensations in your legs, such as itching, pricking, burning, tingling, twitching, and the desire to constantly shift positions, is making it hard for you to rest, then you might suffer from restless legs syndrome. RLS symptoms may subside if you get up and walk around, only to return as soon as you once again attempt to rest.

Common causes of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Although a definitive cause for this syndrome is difficult to pin-point, it is generally accepted that an imbalance of the neurotransmitter dopamine may be to blame. Studies also tend to support the belief that restless legs syndrome is a genetic condition, as most people who suffer from RLS (about sixty percent, to be specific) also have relatives who suffer from RLS. Restless legs syndrome is most common amongst older adults and women – especially pregnant women – and may be triggered by common health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, kidney failure, and iron deficiency.

Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Fortunately, treating RLS begins with simple home remedies and lifestyle changes. Avoiding caffeine, nicotine and alcohol, sticking to a regular sleep routine, stretching your leg muscles regularly, exercising, supplementing your diet with iron, magnesium, vitamin B and folic acid, and practicing meditation and/or yoga can go a long way in relieving the symptoms of restless legs syndrome.

However, if you find that these treatment methods don’t work, you may opt to consult with a doctor for prescription medication treatment. Common drugs used to alleviate the symptoms of restless legs syndrome include prescription painkillers (like codeine, Vicodin and Percocet), sleep medications, muscle relaxers, and even Parkinson’s drugs like pramipexole and ropinirole.

Restless legs syndrome can seriously interfere with your health and wellbeing. If you think you may suffer from RLS, then you should make appropriate lifestyle changes, and then speak with your physician about treatments.