Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition which triggers a strong urge to move the legs due to an unpleasant sensation. When the symptoms occur, you experience discomfort that appears to be eased temporarily by moving your legs.
RLS is considered a sleep and movement disorder that can disrupt your sleep and make it difficult to relax. It tends to occur at night and appears to be triggered by the fact that you’re about to rest.
It is estimated that up to 11% of the American population may have restless leg syndrome. The condition can affect individuals of any age, but it is known to be more frequent as you get older.
What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?
Many people with RLS have a close relative with the disorder, making genetics a primary cause.
Some medications like antidepressants and allergy drugs can cause RLS in some people. You may also develop the condition if you suffer from certain medical conditions such as:
- Poor kidney function
- Iron deficiency
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Signs and Symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome certainly has signs and symptoms you can’t mistake for normal discomfort.
Let’s take a look at them.
1. Uncomfortable Feeling in Your Legs
RLS causes an uncomfortable sensation in your legs that can feel like itching, burning, throbbing, or as if something is crawling on you. It’s fine if you can’t describe the sensation because it’s different for everyone.
Whatever you feel during an RLS episode doesn’t have to match what someone else experiences, but it will be uncomfortable enough to leave you restless.
2. Sensations Occurring After Rest
Restless legs syndrome is typically triggered by rest. It doesn’t happen when you’re moving around, which is a clear symptom to watch out for. When you sit or lie down, whether, in your car, couch, or bed, the sensations kick in soon after or after a while.
3. Periodic Limb Movement
Most people with restless legs syndrome also develop a disorder called periodic limb movement (PLMD). It’s a condition related to RLS that causes involuntary twitching or jerking of your arms and legs at night.
If your sleep is regularly interrupted by these movements, you may have PLMD and, most likely, RLS too. While PLMD can occur by itself, having your legs twitch and kick while you sleep can be a sign you also have RLS.
4. Inability to Sleep
RLS is a sleep disorder that can be highly disruptive to a normal sleep pattern. It’s possible to pass off the discomfort in your legs as fatigue or something else, but if it’s seriously impacting the quality of your sleep, it’s an RLS indicator.
5. Relief with Movement
The most important RLS indicator is that movement relieves the discomfort in your legs. You will automatically feel the urge to keep your legs twitching or change their position frequently to maintain comfort. In severe cases, you may feel like getting up and pacing to shake off the sensations.
6. Sensations Worsening at Night
The symptoms of RLS tend to get worse as the night progresses. The movements you can’t help but make to ease the discomfort will most likely keep you up for a while. And you may also notice that sensations go away in the morning.
Treating Restless Legs Syndrome
There’s no specific treatment for RLS since it doesn’t have a cure. When it’s a symptom of another condition like iron deficiency or peripheral neuropathy, treatment may revolve around addressing the underlying issue.
However, certain medications can help ease RLS symptoms. One particular drug won’t work for everyone, so your doctor may find you one that helps. These medications include antiseizure drugs like gabapentin enacarbil and pregabalin, which the FDA has approved for RLS treatment.
Dopamine drugs like ropinirole and rotigotine are also FDA-approved for RLS treatment. Your doctor may also suggest other medications aside from these.
You could also try alternative remedies. Certain cannabis strains are known to relieve pain, muscle tension, and other forms of discomfort. Marijuana Doctors is a great place to start if you want to try cannabis for medical reasons.
Final Thoughts
Restless legs syndrome may not seem like a serious problem, but left untreated, it could get worse and may affect your quality of life. Seeking help provides you with ways of managing the condition.
About The Author
Jim Pullman
Jim Pulman has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community. He is also passionate about automobiles.
