Restless Legs Syndrome - the Basics

Restless legs syndrome disturbs sleep by causes burning, itching, crawling sensations in the legs and the victim feels a need to move the limbs to seek relief.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

SYMPTOMS OF RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME

• Itching, burning or pain in the legs.This usually occurs in the calf, but can occur elsewhere, occasionally even in the arms and feet.
  
• The condition worsens upon lying down.This causes a need to get up and pace the floor, to keep moving.
  
• More Common in older people.Younger people can also have it.
  

CAUSES OF RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME

• Hereditary.There is often a family history of the disorder.
  
• Sometimes caused by some other medical disorder.Damaged nerves in the hands or feet, diabetes, iron deficiency, kidney problems that require dialysis.
  

EFFECTS OF RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME

• Sleep Deprivation.
  This condition can cause serious loss of sleep and insomnia.
• Depression
  
• Irritability
  
• Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
  

METHODS OF DIAGNOSIS OF RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME

• Personal Observation.
• Detected by bed mates who may also be disturbed by the kicking and restless movements.

TREATMENT OF RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME

No real treatment. But here's some tips to ease the symptoms.

• Massage the legs.Gently massage your legs, especially the calves. Rub with a soothing liniment or ointment.
  
• Take a warm bath.Try a whirlpool bath if you have one.
  
• Mild pain relieverTake in the evening when the sensations first set in.[/link]
• Try some moderate exercise earlier in the day.Strenuous exercise, however, may aggravate the problem.
• Avoid alcohol,caffeine and nicotine.Don't indulge in there especially toward bedtime. They only aggravate the problem.
• Cold compresses.Some people have found these help alleviate the condition.
• Talk to your doctor.Some medications are available that may help relieve the misery.