RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME

RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME

from the article 4 Sleep Disorders Solved
By Stephanie Schorow, Special to Lifescript
Published April 26, 2010

Restless leg syndrome (RLS)

What it is: It's a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move when resting or sleeping.

Some people describe it as an “odd” feeling in their legs or an inability to sit still. Others describe a sensation of burning, creeping, tugging or even insects crawling inside the legs.

Women are nearly twice as likely to suffer from RLS than men, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Causes of RLS: Its cause is unclear, but it seems to be related to iron and/or dopamine deficiencies in the body, says Schulman of Emory’s sleep lab. Women may be particularly affected because menstruation tends to deplete iron.

How to treat RLS: Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. For less serious cases, a doctor may recommend hot or cold showers, using heating pads, exercising or massage therapy – all relax the muscles.

Severe cases may warrant anti-seizure medications and drugs that mimic dopamine, says Brigham’s Kirsch. Another effective option is iron supplements.

Several medications can aggravate RLS symptoms, including antidepressants, tranquilizers and non-prescription allergy and cold medications with antihistamines.

MY THOUGHTS

I cannot imagine it.  RLS doesn't seem to be the usual numbness we feel when our legs stayed cramped in one position for a period of time.  But if you have the slightest suspicion that you might have RLS, check with your doctor for an RLS specialist.  Sounds serious to me.