Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition characterized by individuals experiencing uncomfortable sensations in their legs that are difficult to describe when they are resting, especially when they are about to fall asleep. These sensations usually manifest as tingling, burning, stinging, pulling, or pain in the legs and compel the person to move. Movement can temporarily relieve this discomfort, but it makes it difficult to fall asleep. Although the exact cause of restless legs syndrome is not known, it is thought that genetic factors, imbalances in dopamine levels, and iron deficiency may play a role in the development of this condition.
What is restless legs syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a chronic and progressive movement disorder characterized by a constant desire or compulsion to move the legs. This condition is most intensely triggered at night while resting and therefore seriously disrupts sleep patterns. RLS makes it difficult to fall asleep and also makes it difficult to return to sleep after waking up.
This condition is twice as common in women as in men, and is more common in people who do less than three hours of physical activity per month and in people who smoke. The symptoms of RLS usually worsen in the evening and occur with uncomfortable sensations such as pain and throbbing in the legs.
What are the symptoms of restless legs syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome is a condition that manifests itself with symptoms that are difficult to describe but disturbing. It occurs with sensations such as pain, tingling, burning and itching, especially on the feet, legs and sometimes arms. Restless legs syndrome symptoms are:
- Involuntary leg movements
- Pain that worsens in the evening and at night
- Temporary feeling of relief with movement
- Lack of Attention
- Concentration problems
- Itching, burning and throbbing in the legs
- Numbness and tingling sensation
- Weakness and insomnia
- Constant feeling of restlessness
- Twitching of legs in the evening and during sleep
How is restless leg syndrome treated?
In the treatment of restless legs syndrome, it is important to evaluate this condition in terms of diseases that occur together with the causes and to perform the necessary tests. Treatment for detected secondary causes can provide a significant improvement in symptoms or offer the opportunity to reduce the dosage of medication.
Treatment for restless legs syndrome generally falls into two main categories: drug and non-drug methods. Some medications can help relieve symptoms, at which point your doctor can guide the treatment process by recommending or prescribing appropriate medications.
What is good for restless leg syndrome?
Non-drug treatments for restless legs syndrome that can be applied at home include exercise, applying hot or cold compresses, and reducing stress; these methods can help you relax and ease the transition to sleep.