Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological disorder characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them. These sensations typically occur during periods of rest or inactivity, particularly in the evening or nighttime, and can interfere with sleep.
Key features of RLS include:
1. Uncomfortable Sensations: People with RLS often describe sensations such as creeping, crawling, itching, tingling, burning, or aching in their legs. These sensations can vary in severity from mild to intolerable and can occur in one or both legs.
2. Urge to Move: Individuals with RLS experience an irresistible urge to move their legs to relieve the uncomfortable sensations. Movement, such as walking, stretching, or massaging the legs, temporarily alleviates the discomfort. However, the relief is often short-lived, and the sensations return once the legs are at rest again.
3. Worsening at Rest: Symptoms of RLS typically worsen during periods of rest or inactivity, particularly in the evening or at night. This can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, resulting in insomnia and daytime fatigue.
4. Symptoms Relieved by Movement: Moving the legs can provide temporary relief from the uncomfortable sensations associated with RLS. However, the relief is often short-lived, and symptoms may return once movement ceases.
5. Pattern of Symptoms: RLS symptoms tend to follow a circadian pattern, with worsening symptoms in the evening and nighttime hours. This can disrupt sleep and lead to daytime drowsiness and impaired functioning.
The exact cause of RLS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve abnormalities in the brain's dopamine system and disruptions in iron metabolism. RLS can occur on its own (primary RLS) or as a secondary condition associated with other medical conditions such as iron deficiency, kidney failure, pregnancy, peripheral neuropathy, or certain medications.
Treatment for RLS may involve lifestyle changes, such as adopting good sleep habits, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and regular exercise. In some cases, medication therapy may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and improve sleep quality. It's essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of RLS to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan.
