Restless Legs Syndrome

Overview

Millions of people around the world are afflicted with restless legs syndrome, which is a disorder of the nervous system. As this condition interrupts sleep, it is generally classified as a sleep disorder. Restless leg syndrome is also known as RLS.

Restless legs syndrome affects about one-tenth of the population in the United States. It affects both genders equally and is not discriminating to age brackets or social status. Infants and young children can suffer from restless leg syndrome, although most people misdiagnose many of the symptoms associated with it to be those of just "growing pains." However, the condition seems to afflict middle-aged people, as well as seniors, more than any other age group.

Types

There are two types of RLS:

• Primary RLS - It is the most common type and is also called idiopathic RLS.
• Secondary RLS - It is caused by another disease process or condition.

Symptoms

Restless leg syndrome is mainly felt as an almost overwhelming urge to keep the legs moving to release sensations. Many people feel like somebody is poking their lower legs with needles. Most patients do not describe the sensations as being painful, although they are extremely frustrating. In most cases, the symptoms that the legs experience include neural stimulation that keeps many people awake at night and may even lead to sleep deprivation and stress. For some, the symptoms become so bad and walking becomes very difficult.

Symptoms of restless leg syndrome may vary from mild to extreme. Most people suffer severe symptoms in the evening and at nighttime, normally when sitting and lying down. The exact cause of restless leg syndrome is undetermined.

Causes/Risk Factors

Today, doctors believe that the syndrome may be caused by abnormal growth or development of neurotransmitters. These chemicals found in the brain helps in initiating and regulating muscle movements. Restless leg syndrome is often associated with anemia and peripheral neuropathy. For some, medications that include caffeine, alcohol and some antidepressant drugs can cause RLS. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies may also contribute to varying degrees of restless leg syndrome. There are also some indications that this syndrome seems to be genetic and runs in families, although stress has also been keyed in as a risk factor.

Tests/Diagnosis

Because the symptoms of restless leg syndrome may be vague and are often sporadic, it often takes many years to diagnose. While many people define the sensation as mere growing pains, conditions may worsen as the person ages. If any unusual symptoms occur suddenly and without warning and do not go away within a week or two, it is suggested that you should visit a doctor to determine a possible cause, as well as potential treatments.

Treatment

Restless leg syndrome symptoms can be relieved by medication, and in some cases, eradicates symptoms altogether. Different types of treatment can be used to treat and cure the condition and relieve discomfort. If your symptoms are mild, self-help may be sufficient a treatment. If your restless legs syndrome is caused by an underlying condition, treatments of the underlying condition can be very effective to cure the RLS.