Restless Leg Syndrome Affects Millions
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a disorder that affects 12 million
Americans which involves an irresistible urge to move the legs or arms.
The urge for movement is brought on by a creeping, crawling, tingling, or
burning in the limb. RLS is usually accompanied by difficulty falling or
staying asleep and daytime drowsiness due to lack of sleep.
Potential causes of RLS including an inherited trait, iron deficiency,
kidney failure, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, nerve damage, rheumatoid
arthritis, and pregnancy. Additionally medications, such as antiseizure
medications, antinausea medications, antidepressants, and some cold
and allergy medications can cause RLS symptoms. Caffeine, alcohol, and
tobacco are all substances that can worsen the symptoms of RLS. By
avoiding substances that worsen RLS, adopting good sleep habits, and
participating in regular exercise, most people can control RLS symptoms
without medication. Parkinson’s disease treatments, pain medications,
sedatives, epilepsy medications, and iron supplements may benefit those
who cannot be controlled with lifestyle changes alone.