Restless Leg Syndrome

September 04, 2020 2 min read

Restless leg syndrome also known as Willis Ekbom Disease is a neurological condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, usually because of an uncomfortable sensation. Symptoms typically occur when the person is sitting, resting, or sleeping. This often happens at night and they are temporarily relieved by movement or pressure.

Restless Leg Syndrome or RLS occurs in both men and women, although women are more likely to have it than men and it could begin at any age. Restless legs syndrome has been found to be a genetic syndrome in some cases, meaning that parents with RLS can pass it down to their children. However, many medical problems are closely related with the development of RLS, including:

  1. Iron deficiency
  2. Fibromyalgia
  3. Depression
  4. Parkinson’s disease
  5. Diabetes
  6. Kidney Disease
  7. Rheumatoid Arthritis
  8. Pregnancy

Since symptoms can increase in severity during the night, it could become difficult to fall asleep or return to sleep after waking up.  Moving the legs or walking typically relieves the discomfort but the sensations often happen again once the movement stops.  

Common symptoms:

  1. Sleep disruption
  2. Urge to move legs or arms
  3. Leg or arm discomfort
  4. Burning
  5. Cramping
  6. Pain
  7. Spasms
  8. Numbness
  9. Tingling
  10. Aching

If a person cannot manage symptoms of RLS alone, they may be prescribed medications such as iron supplements, or anti-inflammatory drugs. There are also some home remedies you can try to take the holistic approach.  Warm baths and massages can relax the muscles and reduce the intensity of symptoms. Stress can make RLS worse, so exercises such as yoga, meditation may help. Also, using your legs more can help alleviate symptoms such as walking, jogging, or taking up a new sport. Reduce the amount of light you are exposed to. Avoid stimulating drinks, such as caffeine or sugar and reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption.

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