What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?
July 28, 2009
Also known as Wittmaack-Ekbom’s syndrome, the condition is marked by uncontrollable movement of body to over-come odd sensations. The urge to persistently move body parts is unstoppable.
Signs and Symptoms
Restless Legs Syndrome (PLS) is characterized by movement of legs even while sitting, jiggling, turning and tossing of legs are typical symptoms. Constant rubbing of legs, stretching and flexing are other prominent signs. The movements are done to overcome restlessness experienced during RLS by the person.
The signs become worse during evening and during night. Even if the person voluntarily tries not to move legs, the urge increases further and causes much discomfort.
In some cases, the person may feel strong urge to walk briskly or run. In rare cases, urge to move arms may also occur. In RLS, movement is the only way the person may feel relaxed.
Factors that Cause RLS
The condition is usually hereditary. Deficiency of ferritin (below 50 microgram per litre) is the most common cause of RLS. Folate deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, nervous system disorders like Parkinson`s disease and peripheral neuropathy, autoimmune diseases like celiac disease and Sjoren`s syndrome are other major factors that may lead to RLS. Opiod detoxification and Hypoglycemia are recently discovered causes of RLS.
Treating RLS
Treatment for RLS is done in two ways. One is by consumption of prescribed drugs and the second by following a strict discipline for self.
Follow one routine every day. Exercise regularly and massage your legs daily. Practice yoga and deep breathing to calm down nervous system. Before going to bed always stretch your legs. In case of iron deficiency take supplementation and follow a regular sleeping schedule. You may place a pillow between your legs during sleep.
Soaking feet in warm or cold water may give relief from the urge.
One must completely avoid consumption of caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol. These substances aggravate the symptoms, especially in evening.
Drugs that are usually prescribed for treating RLS include hypertensive medicines, anticonvulsants like gabapectin, narcotics, benzodiazepines and dopaminergic agents. Out of these, narcotics (opiods) may cause physical dependency and must only be given in low doses. Most of the drugs will act as sedatives to calm down the nerves.
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