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The Real Scoop on Restless Legs Syndrome

So what is RLS really all about? The following report includes some fascinating information about RLS--info you can use, not just the rumors and guesses.

It is estimated that as many as 12 million Americans may be effected by restless leg syndrome (RLS). These figures could be on the low side as many with the condition may go undiagnosed, especially when the symptoms are mild.

RLS is a condition in which leg sensations are felt such as creepy crawling, uncomfortable feelings that are in the legs when the individual tries to relax, especially at night. If the individual does not seek treatment they will experience exhaustion and daytime fatigue. This exhaustion will have a negative impact on daily activities such as not being able to function at work, school etc. It is difficult to concentrate and memory may be impaired due to lack of sleep.

Males and females can have RLS as well as individuals of all ages, including children. Those with RLS can also suffer from involuntary arm or leg movement disorder called "periodic limb movement disorder" (PLMD). The cause of RLS like PLMD is unknown.

The symptoms of RLS include uncomfortable sensations in the legs (and sometimes the arms) that are uncomfortable like creepy crawlies and an irresistible urge to move the legs or arms that cannot be denied. These sensations are felt inside the leg or other limb, usually between the knee and ankle. They can be on just one side of the body, but usually on both sides. Moving the body part where the sensations are occuring often helps to relieve the symptoms as long as the movement continues. People with RLS can be found pacing the floor and keeping their legs in motion while sitting. The sensations often happen while sitting for any length of time like while in a movie theatre, during long car rides or while sitting at a computer.

Symptoms can vary in duration and intensity from one individual to another. This is why treatment plans may be different for those suffering from RLS, even though they have the same condition. Symptoms usually increase in severity with age, making it necessary to change the treatment plan.

A family history of RLS is common, which means that RLS is likely to be a genetic disorder. There is not enough studies or research done yet on RLS so there are a lot of unanswered questions about causes, contributing factors, genetics and prognosis.

You can see that there's practical value in learning more about RLS. Can you think of ways to apply what's been covered so far?

Individuals with low levels of iron or who have anemia. It is common for those who have parkinson's disease, kidney failure, diabetes, or peripheral neuropathy to have RLS. Pregnant women have also reported having RLS that disappears after the baby is born.

Certain medications taken for cardiac disease or high blood pressure can induce temporary RLS symptoms, so ask your doctor about the possibility if you have any other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiac disease, liver or kidney disease. If this is the case then these RLS symptoms will disappear when the medication is switched to another medicine.

Individuals with RLS should avoid drinking alcohol or smoking tobacco products and also consuming caffeine in food and drink because these substances can cause RLS symptoms to increase or become more severe.

Individuals with restless legs syndrome have reported some relief when they can improve lifestyle habits regarding sleep, diet, exercise and when they can learn relaxation techniques and apply these techniques to their daily activities.

RLS patients should know that there is research being conducted on their behalf at The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and also by other institutes that are members of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and in addition, other major medical institutions across the United States are also conducting research and case studies. With all of this research being done, there soon will be a higher level of scientific understanding of RLS. We will have new methods of diagnosing and treating restless leg syndrome, better medications and improved relaxation and self-help treatments.

Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action. Taking action and getting help will make you feel better, will allow you to function better during the day and get a lot more sleep at night.