Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is characterized by the need to move the legs to stop uncomfortable sensations in the legs and feet. RLS occurs most frequently in older and middle-aged adults. Massage can make symptoms of restless leg syndrome worse. The cause of RLS in most patients is unknown, but it is known to occur more frequently in those who have other diseases and conditions. Restless leg syndrome can occur more frequently in patients with chronic kidney disease, iron deficiency, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy. Pregnant women are also more likely to have symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Restless leg syndrome can be passed down in families. It can occur when symptoms start at a young age. (I remember having problems with my legs and feet even when I was in my teens. Trying to stop my legs from moving can be a cause of enough anxiety where you can’t fall asleep. Insomnia from RLS can lead to anxiety or depression, daytime sleepiness, and slowed thought processes.
Symptoms of restless leg syndrome
Symptoms of restless leg syndrome include:
Motion – Restless leg syndrome causes sensations in the lower legs that can become uncomfortable unless you constantly shift the position of your legs. The sensations occur during the hours of sleep (at night or during the day) and during periods when they sit for long periods.
Feels – The sensation may be described as a crawling, shooting, burning, pulling or tingling sensation. Some even say it feels like a bubbling sensation under the skin. Symptoms can last for an hour or more at a time. Sensations can sometimes be felt in the feet, legs and arms. People with these sensations often have an urge to get up and walk or move their legs in bed or while sitting. Moving the legs (or arms if affected) relieves discomfort from RLS sensations. Restless leg syndrome is also known as periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD).
Disturbed sleep – Symptoms can often disturb sleep. They can also make traveling difficult because sitting for long periods of time can be very uncomfortable. The symptoms may become worse when stressed or emotionally disturbed.
Diagnostic testing for restless leg syndrome
There is no standard diagnostic test available for restless leg syndrome. The healthcare provider will not find physical irregularities. Sometimes people who have RLS also have peripheral nerve disease (PND). Blood tests for restless leg syndrome (including serum ferritin and CBC) may be done to rule out anemia and iron deficiency, which can occur in rare cases of restless leg syndrome. Examination and testing is also done to rule out other symptoms that could have similar symptoms.
Treatment of restless leg syndrome
There is no specific treatment or cure for restless leg syndrome. The treatment is aimed at stress reduction and muscle relaxation. Warm baths, light exercises, and gentle stretching exercises help to reduce stress and relax the muscles in the extremities.
Low doses of Ropinirole or Pramipexole can be very effective at controlling symptoms in some people with RLS. In cases where sleep is severely disrupted, a health care provider may prescribe medications such as Gabapentin, Sinemet, Pregabalin, and Clonazepam.
People who have iron deficiency anemia should be treated with iron supplements. Low-dose prescription medications can sometimes relieve RLS symptoms. Restless leg syndrome is not life-threatening or dangerous; however painful it may be, and cause sleep disturbances sleep. The main complication to restless leg syndrome is insomnia.
Sources:
Medline Plus
