Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment.org
Restless Leg Syndrome Symptoms
Restless leg syndrome symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed as the sign of a different disorder. RLS is thought to be either a neurological disorder or a disorder resulting from a chemical imbalance. RLS symptoms are sometimes referred to as dysesthesias or parathesias, abnormal sensations, and can vary in intensity from being mildly uncomfortable to extremely irritating and actually painful. The main characteristics include a compulsive need to move the legs and typically unpleasant sensations, such as tingling or crawling.
If you do suffer from RLS it’s likely that one of the most aggravating features of the disease is the disruption during sleep. You often feel as though you must get up and move around. Frequently the discomfort will let up for a while when you do, though they might return after a brief let up. Unfortunately when you do try to relax the symptoms often are triggered.
Common descriptions of the symptoms of RLS from those who suffer from it include a feeling of tingling, burning, creeping and crawling. The legs may be primarily affected, but the arms can also move spasmodically or feel uncomfortable. While the symptoms of RLS will usually begin to be felt gradually, it frequently becomes worse and more frequent over time. RLS is a progressive condition for many individuals and people can be affected at any age. Some people will eventually enter remission, although for others it will become more debilitating. While RLS can be found in both men and women the incidence is slightly higher in women. There is some evidence that supports a genetic basis for RLS. Some people can become severely disabled by restless legs.
The following classes of drugs have been used for the treatment of RLS: benzodiazepines, opiates, anticonvulsants, and dopaminergic medications.
Pinpointing the cause of RLS is impossible for most sufferers, though the following are felt to contribute to the symptoms: a relative with RLS, iron deficiency, smoking, stress, fatigue, chronic diseases, and some medications like anti-seizure drugs.
Common restless leg syndrome symptoms inlcude:
Sleep disturbances, sleepiness during the daytime, leg twitching and discomfort at night, more symptoms during the afternoon and evening than in the morning, and problems falling asleep due to the unpleasant sensations in the limbs or spasmodic movement of the limbs.
If you feel you have a number of the symptoms of RLS and your life is being negatively impacted then consider some the following treatment options. Cut way back on any use of caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol. Exercise regularly, at least three times per week; preferably more frequently but for a shorter duration, than less frequently and for longer periods of time. Consider taking a long hot bath before bedtime. Visit a physical therapist for therapy. See if getting a massage tends to lessen symptoms. And if prescribed medication, be sure to check out the side effects.
Whatever method of intervention you use do yourself a favor and keep a journal noting whether the frequency and intensity of symptoms change or not.
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