Anemia, uremia, and depression are the primary causes of restless leg syndrome. Restless leg syndrome treatments like cold compresses can help calm the symptoms.

Everything You Need To Know About Restless Leg Syndrome

Introduction

In restless leg syndrome (RLS), you may experience the need to move your legs constantly. This impulse is usually triggered when you feel uncomfortable. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, it affects roughly 10% of Americans. 5-10% of adults in North America and Europe have RLS<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. 
&nbsp;

The fact that it frequently occurs or worsens while you&#39;re sleeping, doctors classify RLS as a sleep disorder. You also experience this sleeping-associated problem when you sit for a long time without stretching your legs, like in a movie theater or a car.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

If you don&#39;t receive treatment, then it gets worse. Over time, sleep deprivation can lead to issues at work or home. 
&nbsp;

While anyone can experience RLS, women and middle-aged individuals are more likely to experience severe symptoms. Doctors occasionally fail to diagnose restless leg syndrome, mainly because the signs are minor or infrequent. But once diagnosed, it can be treated. 
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Understanding Restless Leg Syndrome(RLS)

A neural system disease called restless legs syndrome results in an excited impulse to move your legs. It is also called Willis-Ekbom illness. 35% of RLS patients reported having symptoms before the age of 20<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. By age 10, 1 in 10 children exhibit symptoms. With time, these symptoms typically get worse.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

While the impulse to move your legs is the main symptom, RLS can be characterized by the following: 
&nbsp;

<h5>Leg Aches Causing Discomfort</h5>

<ul>
	<li>A strong feeling that makes you move your legs. Not only is the feeling uncomfortable, it can also be painful.</li>
	<li>There are many ways to describe the experience - aches, pulls, creepy crawling sensations, etc.</li>
	<li>This need or impulse to move the legs will be the primary cause of your discomfort.</li>
	<li>Although the entire leg from the thigh to the ankle will be affected, these sensations will typically occur in your calf area.</li>
	<li>Both of your legs could be impacted or it could be just one. There&rsquo;s a possibility that you feel the sensations in your arms as well. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>It&rsquo;s Worse At Night</h5>

<ul>
	<li>Symptoms may appear only after your bedtime or when you&rsquo;re trying to sit for any length of time in the evening.</li>
	<li>You may experience symptoms all day long, but you can notice them getting worse at night and occasionally in the morning. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>It Leads To Sleep Issues</h5>

<ul>
	<li>The sensations are likely to appear whether one is attempting to lie quietly before bed or sitting during a long flight during the day.</li>
	<li>The symptoms become intolerable, whether trying to sit through a movie or calmly reading a book to enjoy some moments.</li>
	<li>You are unable to relax or calm down.</li>
	<li>Due to difficulty falling asleep, RLS frequently results in sleep issues. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>Moving Helps Relieve The Symptoms</h5>

<ul>
	<li>If you have RLS, you&rsquo;ll quickly discover that getting up and moving around immediately alleviates the pain.</li>
	<li>The symptoms typically reappear as soon as you return to a relaxed condition.</li>
	<li>Usually, any leg movement will provide some instant relief even though it would be short-lived.</li>
	<li>The legs might bounce on their own if you do not move.</li>
	<li>A fleeting feeling may precede the involuntary leg motions.</li>
	<li>Most of the time, it&rsquo;s moving your legs in a repetitive or semi-rhythmic manner when you are asleep.</li>
	<li>Your bed partner would know about this, even if you don&rsquo;t.</li>
	<li>RLS is named for the way the sufferer&#39;s legs move constantly in an effort to stave off the discomfort, giving the impression that they are restless. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The sensations are typically felt inside the limb as opposed to on the skin, and they are described as: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Crawling</li>
	<li>Creeping</li>
	<li>Pulling</li>
	<li>Throbbing</li>
	<li>Electric</li>
	<li>Aching</li>
	<li>Itching 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Sometimes it&#39;s challenging to convey the sensations. You cannot assume you have RLS every time you experience numbness or a muscle cramp. However, there would be this constant urge to move their legs that should be taken seriously. The degree of symptoms changes often; sometimes, symptoms go away for a while before returning. 
&nbsp;

Genetics play an important role; nearly half of the people with RLS have it because it runs in the family<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. It could also be connected to: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Chronic Illnesses&nbsp;</li>
	<li>It can be a symptom of several chronic medical diseases, such as: 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

1.<a href="https://www.merisehat.pk/disease/iron-deficiency-anemia-64"> Iron deficiency</a>

2. Renal disease

3. Parkinson&#39;s disease

4. <a href="https://www.merisehat.pk/disease/diabetes-type-1-and-2">Diabetes </a>and peripheral neuropathy 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Medications</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Some medications can potentially exacerbate symptoms. For example:&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

1. Antipsychotics

2. Antidepressants

3. Antihistamine-containing cold and allergy remedies 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Pregnancy</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;Some pregnant women might develop it, especially in their third trimester. After delivery, symptoms typically disappear within a month. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Lifestyle</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

A sleep condition, like apnea, or lack of sleep can cause or exacerbate symptoms. Same is the case with smoking and consuming coffee/alcohol. 
&nbsp;

Medical testing does not exist for RLS. Your doctor might want to discuss their observations with your partner. 
&nbsp;

The following 4 factors are necessary to diagnose RLS: 
&nbsp;

1. A strong impulse to get up, especially when coupled with unsettling or strange emotions.

2. A need to move legs that appears or intensifies when you&#39;re at rest.

3. A pressure that subsides when you move, either entirely or partially.

4. A desire to move your legs that either begins or worsens in the evening in the absence of other symptoms such as muscle pains, leg cramps. 
&nbsp;

Your doctor may use lab testing to rule out other conditions. A neurological examination might look for issues with blood vessels or nerve damage. If you have any additional sleep problems that could be causing your restless legs syndrome, a sleep test called polysomnography can reveal this. 
&nbsp;

Although therapies can help control RLS and you can enjoy a decent night&#39;s sleep, there is no particular cure and treatment for the condition itself. The first step of treatment planning involves managing any underlying conditions if any. 
&nbsp;

Regardless, the focus of the treatment is centered around providing symptomatic relief. If your condition is mild or moderate, making a few minor lifestyle adjustments could be beneficial. These include obtaining regular exercise, maintaining a typical sleep pattern, and abstaining from caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. 
&nbsp;

Some people benefit from medications. However, a drug that reduces symptoms in one person may make them worse in another, and a medication that has been effective for a while may stop working in future. 
&nbsp;

RLS medications include: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Drugs known as dopaminergic affect the brain&#39;s dopamine neurotransmitter. For moderate to severe restless legs syndrome, the FDA has approved ropinirole (Requip), pramipexole (Mirapex), and rotigotine (Neupro).</li>
	<li>Occasionally, doctors prescribe Parkinson&#39;s disease medications: carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet).</li>
	<li>A sedative called benzodiazepines may aid with sleep but can also make you tired during the day.</li>
	<li>Narcotic analgesics can also help alleviate symptoms.</li>
	<li>Pregabalin, carbamazepine (Tegretol), gabapentin (Neurontin), gabapentin enacarbil (Horizant), and other anticonvulsant or seizure medications (Lyrica) are appropriate treatments, too. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

A lifelong ailment, RLS may worsen with age. However, some patients experience remission and go months to years without symptoms.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The important point is to keep your doctor informed of your progress. They could advise alternative lifestyle modifications or different drugs if your symptoms appear to be worsening.

Pregnancy-associated RLS symptoms typically emerge in the third trimester. According to data, the risk of RLS is 2-3 times higher in pregnant women. 
&nbsp;

Unfortunately, the exact cause of RLS remains to be elucidated. However, a few potential causes such as deficiencies in vitamins or minerals, hormonal imbalances, or nerve compression have been studied. 
&nbsp;

Since leg pains and trouble sleeping are also side effects of pregnancy, it is a challenge to discriminate between these symptoms and RLS. Consult your doctor if you suffer from restless leg syndrome symptoms during pregnancy. Testing for iron deficiency or other deficiencies may be necessary. You can also test out a few of these at-home care methods: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Don&#39;t spend too much time sitting stationary, especially in the evening.</li>
	<li>Even a short walk in the afternoon will count as some exercise.</li>
	<li>Before going to bed, massage your legs or do some leg stretches.</li>
	<li>When your legs bother you, try applying a heat or cold pack to them.</li>
	<li>Maintain a consistent sleeping routine.</li>
	<li>Steer clear of alcohol, coffee, smoking, and antihistamines.</li>
	<li>Make sure your diet or prenatal supplements have all the nutrients you require. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Some drugs prescribed to treat RLS should not be taken during pregnancy. Besides, it typically goes away on its own after delivery. Consult your doctor about alternative treatments if it doesn&#39;t, especially if you are nursing. 
&nbsp;

Speaking with others who understand what you&#39;re going through, like a family member with restless leg syndrome or a support group, is always helpful.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Here are some exercise tips and lifestyle changes that can help 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Exercises</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

1. Exercise at lunch; walk to the park or around the block while carrying your sandwich.

2. Boost your circulation by doing some stationary jogging.

3. Make sure to stand up, stretch, and move about for five minutes after every hour or so, if RLS is troubling you at work.

4. Stretch your legs at the beginning and the end of the day for symptomatic relief.

5. Don&rsquo;t sit in one position for a long time during a long road trip. Passengers and drivers both should take frequent breaks to stretch out and switch places.

6. Indulge in a relaxing leg massage, calm the body and mind as well as your restless legs.

7. Opt for an aisle seat when flying. Increase your circulation by getting up often.

8. Skip the coffee and spend five minutes stretching your legs if you wake up at 3 am in the morning due to RLS. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Lifestyle&nbsp;</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

1. Massage your legs gently while attending a conference call or observing TV.

2. Take a hot bath to relax.&nbsp;

3. Use ice packs to soothe restless legs.

4. Consult your physician on how you can increase your iron levels.&nbsp;

5. Limit your alcohol intake as it may exacerbate RLS symptoms.

6. Avoid taking large meals before bed to reduce symptoms and achieve a better night&#39;s sleep. On the same note try to also reduce your intake of junk food.&nbsp;

7. Try relaxation methods, like progressive muscle relaxation or meditation.

8. Only take prescription drugs and herbal therapies that are prescribed by your doctor. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5>Nighttime Strategies&nbsp;</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

1. Go for a stroll with your children, pet, or friend. You might sleep better if you exercise often. Moderate exercise can help with RLS symptoms, but be careful not to overdo it, as that can worsen the condition.

2. Use a heated pad before you go to bed.

3. Breathe!&nbsp;

4. Eliminate alcohol, caffeine and nicotine from your evening routine to improve your sleep quality.

5. Try to maintain a regular sleep pattern and avoid day napping.&nbsp;

6. Think positive thoughts while in bed to reduce any anxiety.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>Diet Recommendations&nbsp;</h5>

There are no particular dietary recommendations. However, it&#39;s wise to evaluate your diet to ensure you&#39;re getting all the necessary vitamins and nutrients. It will also help reduce your intake of processed foods that have high calories but little to no nutritional value.

Sometimes, restless leg syndrome is due to a deficiency in specific vitamins and minerals. You can alter your diet or use dietary supplements if that is the case.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Try increasing your intake of these iron-rich foods if you suffer from an iron deficiency:

<ul>
	<li>Dark green leafy vegetables</li>
	<li>Dried fruit</li>
	<li>Beans</li>
	<li>Poultry and seafood</li>
	<li>Peas</li>
	<li>Iron-fortified foods, such as certain cereals, pasta, and bread 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

You may also wish to combine iron-rich products with these supplies of vitamin C since vitamin C aids in the body&#39;s absorption of iron:

<ul>
	<li>Citrus juices</li>
	<li>Grapefruit, oranges, tangerines</li>
	<li>Strawberries</li>
	<li>Kiwi&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Melons</li>
	<li>Tomatoes</li>
	<li>Peppers</li>
	<li>Broccoli and leafy greens| 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The role of caffeine is not clear. It triggers symptoms of RLS in some people, whereas others find it beneficial. Checking to see if caffeine affects your symptoms is worth a try. However, alcohol is definitely known to disturb sleep; avoid it at all costs, especially at night. 
&nbsp;

Conclusion

Restless leg syndrome results in uncomfortable feelings and a strong impulse to move the legs. This compulsive desire is usually stronger when you are resting or attempting to fall asleep. The biggest worry, thus, is that RLS interferes with sleep and you are left feeling tired and exhausted during the day.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

If RLS and sleep deprivation are not treated, you may develop additional health issues, such as depression. Although there is no known cure for restless leg syndrome, medicines can help moderate symptoms. Primary care physicians now have more tools than ever to diagnose and treat restless leg syndrome patients, thanks to improvements in diagnostic criteria, treatment plans, and revised recommendations. Continued investigation of pharmaceutical long-term therapy results is necessary for future advancement in drug therapy guidelines. 
&nbsp;

Key Points

<ul><li>A neural system disease called restless legs syndrome results in an excited impulse to move your legs.</li><li>There are no specific symptoms of the syndrome and it can occasionally be misdiagnosed as another illness.</li><li>Pregnant women are more prone to developing RLS , especially in the third trimester.</li><li>Restless legs syndrome cannot be cured, but it’s possible to manage its symptoms to a certain extent by making lifestyle adjustments.&nbsp;</li></ul>

[1] Kwatra V, Khan MA, Quadri SA, Cook TS. Differential Diagnosis and Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome: A Literature  Review. Cureus. 2018 Sep;10(9):e3297.

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