Relevant answers to your frequent questions...

Restless Legs Syndrome: Frequently Asked Questions

What is restless legs syndrome?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder characterized by abnormal or unpleasant sensations occurring primarily in the legs. These unpleasant sensations lead to an overwhelming urge to move the legs, and the resulting movement relieves the symptoms for a short time. Restless legs syndrome generally gets worse during periods of inactivity or when relaxing, especially during the evening. Sleeping difficulties caused by RLS can lead to limited sleep and daytime exhaustion, affecting quality of life. ...

Who Is At Risk for Restless Legs Syndrome?

Various, large scale study have revealed that adults of all ages may be affected by RLS but the occurrence increases with age. But many people with RLS diagnosed before the age of 20 years. Patients report that their symptoms worsen progressively with age. RLS affects both men and women. But the disorder is slightly more common in women than in men. Patients may experience increasing daytime tiredness as symptoms get worse and sleep becomes more uneven often due to PLMD. RLS is common in pregnant women. ...

Is Restless Legs Syndrome serious?

The symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome can range anywhere from troublesome to unbearable. Fluctuations in severity are common, and rarely the symptoms may disappear for periods of time. Anxiety as bedtime approaches; glumness and depression, frustration with nighttime awakenings, difficulty concentrating and excessive daytime sleepiness have all been reported in association with the disorder. ...

What are the symptoms of restless legs syndrome?

People with RLS experience uncomfortable feelings in their legs such as tingling, crawling, or pins and needles. This often makes it hard for them to fall asleep or stay asleep, and causes them to be sleepy during the day.

What is restless legs syndrome (RLS)?

RLS is a common, yet often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, 2 neurological sensorimotor disorder. 3 People with RLS: Have a strong urge to move their legs which they really can’t resist. The need to move is often accompanied by uncomfortable leg sensations. 4 Have symptoms that start or become worse when they are resting. The longer they are resting, the greater the chance the symptoms will occur and the more severe they are likely to be. 8 Have symptoms that get better when they move their legs. ...
RLS is a neurological movement condition characterized by a strong, compelling urge to move the legs, often accompanied by leg twitching and uncomfortable, sometimes painful, sensations in the legs. The symptoms of RLS are worse while sitting or lying down. The symptoms get better when the person moves around, but return when he or she sits or lies back down. Usually, the twitching legs, tingling legs, and other symptoms of RLS begin during the evening or at night.

How common is restless legs syndrome?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common condition that may affect up to 12 million people in the United States. Approximately 5% to 15% of the general population may be affected by varying degrees of RLS.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common condition that may affect up to 12 million people in the United States. Approximately 5% to 15% of the general population may be affected by varying degrees

Restless Legs Syndrome?

For those with restless legs syndrome (RLS), the sensation of discomfort is so acute, it can only be relieved by moving or stimulating the legs. These tingling, crawling or prickling sensations are most pronounced during inactivity, particularly while trying to fall asleep. RLS sufferers find staying asleep is a problem as well. Rubbing the legs, getting up and walking around, or taking a hot shower usually offer only temporary relief. The sensations return with the return to bed. ...

Can Hyland’s Restful Legs be taken for Restless Legs Syndrome?

No. If you believe you have Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), please consult your doctor or health professional immediately. Hyland’s Restful Legs tablets are indicated specifically to relieve symptoms of leg jerks and twitches; creeping, crawling itch in the legs; restless legs when lying down and made better with movement; and a constant urge to move the legs.

What Causes Restless Legs Syndrome?

While the exact cause of primary Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is unknown, doctors believe that RLS may be related to dopamine, a chemical that carries the signals between the nerve cells that help to control body movement. When the dopamine system does not function properly, it may upset the normal communication of these signals, which may cause the uncomfortable sensations and pain you may feel. How To Treat Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) You may have asked yourself if anything could be done to treat the symptoms of RLS. ...

Is Restless Legs Syndrome real? How is it treated?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is one of the most common movement disorders, affecting about 5 to 10 percent of the general population. Clinical criteria established by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group include a set of four symptoms that establish the diagnosis of RLS: (1) a desire to move the limbs, often associated with unpleasant sensations; (2) restlessness: (3) worsening of symptoms at rest and at least temporary relief with movement; and (4) worsening of symptoms in the evening or night. ...

What are the Drugs and Substances that can cause Restless Legs Syndrome?

The use of certain prescription or over-the-counter medications may cause or worsen restless legs syndrome. Therefore, before suggesting or prescribing any specific treatments, physicians may ask for detailed information about the patient's current routine of medications. Certain substances can cause RLS symptoms or make them worse. These substances include tobacco, alcohol, antidepressants and caffeine. Some cold and allergy medicines and some drugs and substances can cause ‘Restless Legs Syndrome’. ...

Is it possible to have Restless Leg Syndrome in areas of the body other than the legs?

Yes. Although this condition is normally presented in the legs, it can occur in the arms or even the trunk.
Bookmark this page  

Also on SnappyFingers: