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Most episodes of RLS are unknown to doctors, although your DNA may play a significant role. Approximately half of those who suffer from RLS have a close relative who suffers from it.
Chronic illnesses might potentially be a factor. RLS symptoms can be caused by a number of long-term medical disorders, including iron deficiency, Parkinson's, renal failure, hepatic illness, peripheral neuropathy, and hyperglycemia.
Medications: Some medicines, such as anti-nausea medications, antihistamine-antipsychotics, and some antidepressants, may exacerbate symptoms.
Environmental Factors: Sleep deprivation or another sleep condition such as apnea can exacerbate or provoke symptoms. Beer, tobacco, and energy drink usage can all be harmful.
Pregnancy: While pregnant, RLS affects some women, specifically in the third trimester. Within a month of birth, the symptoms normally subside.
In general populations, the prevalence of RLS is believed to range between 3.9 percent and 14.3 percent, and it tends to rise with age. Restless legs syndrome is among the most frequent sleep and movement problems. For unknown reasons, the condition affects females more frequently than males.
Other than the family history, some of the medical conditions may increase your chances of having RLS;
The primary symptom is a strong desire to move one's legs which is accompanied by the following symptoms:
All individuals with RLS complaints should have an iron deficiency checked. A ferritin level must be measured at least, while a comprehensive iron profile, which includes the following, is preferred because ferritin can be mistakenly raised in acute inflammatory responses:
Other laboratory tests should be performed if a secondary source of RLS is suggested based on history, clinical findings on examination by a brain doctor, or unsatisfactory response to therapy.
The following are further tests your doctor would suggest to rule out some of the secondary causes of restless legs syndrome.
Your doctor could also send you to a sleep professional. If another sleep condition, such as sleep apnea, is indicated, this may include accommodation at a sleep center, where specialists can examine your sleep pattern. A sleep study is typically not required for confirmation of RLS.
Many diseases may look like Restless Legs Syndrome, such as:
RLS manifestations can be considerably relieved by addressing an underlying problem, such as an iron deficit. Iron supplements can be taken either orally or intravenously to treat an iron deficit. On the other hand, iron supplements should only be used under a doctor's supervision and after the physician has evaluated your iron level.
General measures
You must start working to improve your sleep hygiene. Maintaining a good sleep cycle is the key.
Because cure is only achievable in secondary RLS, drug treatment for primary restless legs is mostly supportive. The following medications are being used in the management of RLS:
Restless legs syndrome is a chronic illness that can worsen as you get older. However, some people experience remission and go months or years without experiencing symptoms. Your doctor may recommend various lifestyle modifications or drugs if you begin to feel unwell. Engaging with people who understand what you're experiencing, whether it's a member of the family with RLS or a support network, can be beneficial.
By making some changes in your way of living, you can easily overcome your symptoms.
Our clinical experts continually monitor the health and medical content posted on CURA4U, and we update our blogs and articles when new information becomes available. Last reviewed by Dr.Saad Zia on May 08, 2023.
https://www.indianjournals.com/ijor.aspx?target=ijor:ijanm&volume=10&issue=2&article=018
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition related to the movement of the extremities that is frequently linked with a sleep problem. Individuals with RLS may experience non-painful but annoying symptoms, such as a seemingly uncontrollable need to move their legs. RLS may leave you physically and emotionally handicapped.
It can also induce creeping, scratching, tugging, squeezing, straining, throbbing, scorching, or biting feelings. RLS is a disease that runs in families as well as it is sometimes associated with some medications or long-term illnesses.
It may appear at any age and get worse as you get older. It can result in poor quality of life by affecting daily tasks and disrupting sleep.
Basic self-care and behavioral adjustments may be beneficial in alleviating symptoms. Many people with RLS benefit from treatment.