Summary for HealthiNation’s Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Hosted by Dr. Roshini Raj, Gastroenterology

What Is Restless Legs Syndrome?

Restless Legs Syndrome, or RLS, is characterized by symptoms that can include burning, creeping and tugging sensations felt deep in the leg, usually between the knee and ankle. Despite its name, Restless “Legs” Syndrome, the condition may also affect the arms. There is the same urgent feeling to move, but in this case it occurs between the elbow and wrist.

What Happens When Someone Has RLS?

RLS will make you want to move, stretch or shake your leg. And, when you do, there is temporary relief. This cycle of symptom and relief can continue for long periods and, in some people, may be very painful. Because movement provides relief, people with RLS may pace the floor, move their legs around while sitting and toss and turn in bed. This can keep you awake at night, and result in major daytime fatigue. Some people experience one or two episodes per week. But in severe cases, patients may make uncontrolled and often continuous movements, even while awake.

What Causes RLS?

The cause of RLS is unknown. Researchers believe it might be due to an imbalance of the brain chemical dopamine. This is the chemical that carries the signals between nerve cells that control body movement. When dopamine levels don’t function properly, the communication of these signals is disrupted.

Diagnosing RLS

Because it’s so hard to diagnose (there is no definitive test), your doctor will rely mostly on the way you describe your symptoms. He or she will also ask about your family’s medical history, and any medications you might be taking. Also, make note of the frequency, duration and intensity of your symptoms as well as the time of day they’re worst and how they affect you on a daily basis.

Types Of RLS

There are two forms of RLS—primary and secondary. Primary sufferers often have family members who’ve had it too. Secondary RLS has underlying causes such as chronic diseases like kidney failure, diabetes and Parkinson's disease.

Risk Factors For RLS

RLS can appear at any age. It tends to affect more women than men, partially because some pregnant women experience RLS, especially in their last trimester. Symptoms usually disappear within four weeks after delivery.

Managing RLS

If you do feel the symptoms of RLS, there are several things you can do on your own to manage it:

• Don’t Fight The Urge To Move Your Legs. It will only make things worse. Get up and move around or try standing at your desk.
• Try Hot or Cold Baths. Heating pads and ice packs may also ease the discomfort.
• Massage Your Legs. This may help to improve circulation.
• Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, And Tobacco. These all affect the nervous system.
• Understand Your Medications. Certain medications-such as anti-nausea drugs, anti-seizure drugs, antipsychotic drugs, and some cold and allergy medications-may aggravate symptoms. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of changing medications if you experience medication as a trigger.
• Find A Sleep Pattern That Works. Studies show that maintaining a regular sleep pattern can help. Some people, for instance, have fewer symptoms at certain times of day or night and change their sleep patterns accordingly.
• Exercise Moderately. Moderate exercise routines may also help; excessive exercise, on the other hand, can make your symptoms worse.

Treating RLS With Medication

Here are some medication options you may want to discuss with your doctor:

• Dopaminergic Agents. These are largely used to tame the trembling and shaking that people with Parkinson's disease suffer from, have also been shown to reduce RLS symptoms and are usually the first to be prescribed.
• Benzodiazepines. These are used to treat mild or intermittent symptoms. These drugs may help you sleep better.
• Opioids. These are presribed for more severe symptoms because they can help you relax, as well as target severe pain.
• Anticonvulsants. These can reduce creeping and crawling sensations, but they also may make you feel dizzy and sleepy.

Finding the right medication may take some trial and error. Thus, it is very important that you work with your doctor and have patience to find the right treatment plan for you.

HealthiNation offers health information for educational purposes only; this information is not meant as medical advice. Always consult your doctor about your specific health condition.