- So what exactly is RLS?
RLS is a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move when at rest in an effort to relieve these feelings. The sensations range in severity from uncomfortable to irritating to painful.
What causes RLS?
Most research claims that RLS is a genetic disorder. Some other factors (that are not yet proven) include:
- People with low iron levels or anemia may be prone to developing RLS.
- Chronic diseases such as kidney failure, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and peripheral neuropathy are associated with RLS. Treating the underlying condition often provides relief from RLS symptoms.
- Some pregnant women experience RLS, especially in their last trimester.
- Certain medications-such as antinausea drugs (prochlorperazine or metoclopramide), antiseizure drugs (phenytoin or droperidol), antipsychotic drugs (haloperidol or phenothiazine derivatives), and some cold and allergy medications-may aggravate symptoms.
How is RLS treated?
For those with mild to moderate symptoms, prevention is key, and many physicians suggest certain lifestyle changes and activities to reduce or eliminate symptoms. Decreased use of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco may provide some relief. Physicians may suggest that certain individuals take supplements to correct deficiencies in iron, folate, and magnesium. Studies also have shown that maintaining a regular sleep pattern can reduce symptoms. Some individuals, finding that RLS symptoms are minimized in the early morning, change their sleep patterns. Others have found that a program of regular moderate exercise helps them sleep better; on the other hand, excessive exercise has been reported by some patients to aggravate RLS symptoms. Taking a hot bath, massaging the legs, or using a heating pad or ice pack can help relieve symptoms in some patients. Although many patients find some relief with such measures, rarely do these efforts completely eliminate symptoms.
Another option is for a physicians to suggest a variety of medications to treat RLS.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disorder.
For more info on RLS visit http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/restless_legs/detail_restless_legs.htm#84743237
