RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME (RLS)

Restless legs syndrome (RLS, Wittmaack-Ekbom's syndrome, or sometimes, but inaccurately, referred to as Nocturnal myoclonus) is a condition that is characterized by an irresistible urge to move one's body to stop uncomfortable or odd sensations.



It most commonly affects the legs, but can also affect the arms or torso. Moving the affected body part modulates the sensations, providing temporary relief. RLS causes a sensation in the legs or arms that can most closely be compared to a burning, itching, or tickling sensation in the muscles.

Periodic limb movements are exhibited during sleep rather than while awake and usually occur in the legs but may also affect the arms.  Five to 15 of every 100 people experience the discomfort of RLS at some time in their lives.

What causes RLS?
RLS may be hard to describe, but it is not a psychological or emotional condition. Researchers are unsure of its exact cause. Current studies are focused on a brain chemical known as dopamine. Medications that increase dopamine in the brain have been effective at relieving RLS symptoms.

Some people have medical conditions that seem to increase the chance of developing RLS. These conditions include the following:

• Low blood iron levels
• Poor blood circulation in the legs
• Nerve problems in the spine or legs
• Muscle disorders
• Kidney disorders
• Alcoholism
• Certain vitamin or mineral deficiencies

How is RLS Diagnosed?

Do you have the following complains?

• You have an intense urge to move your legs.
• You have unpleasant sensations in your legs that you might describe with these words: creeping, crawling, pulling, tingling, or electric feelings.
• Symptoms are worse when resting or inactive, especially when sitting or lying down.
• Moving your legs relieves the symptoms.
• Symptoms are worse in the evening or at bed time.

How is RLS treated?

Home remedies are enough to help some people with mild or occasional RLS. These remedies include:

• Hot baths
• Leg massage
• Applied heat
• Ice packs
• Aspirin or other pain relievers
• Regular exercise
• Elimination of caffeine