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Main symptom -

The main symptom of restless legs syndrome is an irresistible and uncontrollable urge to move the legs.

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Goes away with movement -

The urge often lessens with movement, such as jiggling the legs, stretching the legs, pacing, or walking.

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Creeping sensation -

In some cases it can also cause an unpleasant creeping sensation in the feet, calves, and thighs.

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Worse at night -

The feeling of restlessness is often worse in the evening or at night, and in some cases the hands are affected too.

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Periodic limb movements -

Restless legs syndrome is also associated with periodic limb movements (PLM), which is when the legs and/or arms jerk involuntarily.

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Variation in frequency -

Not everyone who suffers from restless legs syndrome has symptoms constantly. Some people have the symptoms every day, while some only notice them occasionally.

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Variation in severity -

Cases of restless legs syndrome also vary in severity. At its very worst, restless legs syndrome can be very distressing and disrupt a person’s daily life.

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Causes -

The majority of cases of restless legs syndrome have no obvious cause. In cases such as these, we refer to idiopathic or primary restless legs syndrome.

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Idiopathic restless legs syndrome -

Idiopathic restless legs syndrome tends to run in families, and some neurologists believe it has something to do with how the body handles dopamine.

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Dopamine -

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter and hormone and serves many important functions in the body, including controlling muscle movement.

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Underlying condition -

In other cases, restless legs syndrome can be caused by an underlying condition, such as iron deficiency anemia or kidney failure.

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Secondary restless legs syndrome -

In cases where restless legs syndrome is caused by an underlying condition, we refer to secondary restless legs syndrome.

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Link with pregnancy -

Restless legs syndrome has also been linked with pregnancy. According to the NHS, one in five women will experience it during their final three months of pregnancy.

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Link with pregnancy -

It is not yet clear why pregnant women are more likely to suffer from restless legs syndrome. We do know, however, that the symptoms usually disappear after the woman has given birth.

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Treatment -

In mild cases of restless legs syndrome that are not linked to any underlying health condition, often no treatment is required.

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Lifestyle changes -

Instead, people experiencing symptoms may be advised to make a few simple lifestyle changes.

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Examples -

These lifestyle changes may include taking steps to improve sleep patterns, such as following a regular bedtime routine and avoiding caffeine and alcohol late at night.

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Quitting smoking -

People may also be advised to quit smoking (if they happen to be smokers) and to exercise regularly during the day time.

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More severe cases -

If symptoms are more severe, people with restless legs syndrome may be prescribed medication to regulate the levels of dopamine and iron in the body.

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In cases of anemia -

Equally, if the symptoms are caused by iron deficiency anemia, the patient may be prescribed iron supplements as treatment.

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Who is affected? -

When we look at the data on who is most affected by restless legs syndrome, it is clear that it is common and can affect anyone at any point in their life.

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More likely in women -

However, it is also clear that women are twice as likely as men to develop restless legs syndrome at some point during their life.

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Stage of life -

It also seems that restless legs syndrome is more common during middle age, although the symptoms can appear at any age, including during childhood.

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Prescribed treatment -

If it is possible to address an underlying cause for this condition, and if necessary prescribe treatment, the symptoms will usually disappear.

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Complications -

However, if it is not possible to identify an underlying cause, the symptoms can sometimes get worse over time and eventually affect a person’s life in a serious way.

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Insomnia -

While the condition itself is not life threatening, it can cause serious disruption to people’s sleep and even cause insomnia.

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Associated mental disorders -

Not getting enough sleep not only leaves us feeling exhausted, but it can also cause mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.

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Finding help -

If you or someone you know suffers from restless legs syndrome and it is affecting quality of life, consider contacting one of the many dedicated charities that offer information and support.

Sources: (NHS)

See also: Ever heard of 'eldest daughter syndrome'?

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