Imagine your legs have a mind of their own, and instead of cooperating with your sleep schedule, they decide to do the cha-cha at 2 am. That’s Restless leg syndrome (RLS) a.k.a Willis Ekbom disease in a nutshell.
It’s a neurological disorder that causes uncontrollable urges to move your legs, usually because of weird sensations like tingling, pulling, creeping or just a general feeling of ‘get up and move! NOW”.
The worst part? It happens when you’re trying to relax - watching TV, sitting for more extended periods or when you’re trying to get a good rest. It’s like your legs have FOMO and can’t handle staying still.
Disclaimer - The exact cause of Restless leg Syndrome is still unknown. And in such cases when we don’t know the cause it’s termed as an idiopathic condition or primary restless legs syndrome.
With the existing research, it has been concluded that the cause could primarily be due to;
Genetics - Yes, you read it right! The dancing genes could be inherited from our family and will probably show before you turn 40.
Iron deficiency - Just know when you jerk up suddenly and feel like you’re gonna pass out. YOU NEED IRON! Also, sometimes iron can be low in your brain despite normal blood levels.
Dopamine - To regulate and coordinate body movement, dopamine serves as a messenger between the brain and nervous system. When this is damaged, the rewarding hormone in the brain is reduced, which can cause muscle spasms and involuntary movements.
Other underlying conditions - RLS can often occur as a result of another health-related factor or complications. For example, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and an underactive thyroid.
Pregnancy - One in three of pregnant women experience RLS, but luckily, it subsides within a few weeks after delivery.
Medications - Certain medicines like antihistamine and antidepressants could trigger RLS. It’s best to consult your doctor if you are under medication and suffer from RLS.
A strong almost irresistible urge to move your legs (especially at night).
Strange sensation that feels like bugs crawling, electric shocks or deep itchiness under the skin.
Feeling as if there’s water stored in your blood vessels.
Immediate relief when you start moving (which is super fun when you’re trying to sleep, I guess).
Symptoms that get worse at night but chill out in the morning (my sleep schedule ngl) - like your legs work on a villain schedule.
Sensations can happen on one side of your body but more commonly affect both sides, especially the legs.
Mild to unbearable pain.
It may seem like a minor issue where your body experiences mood swings and likes to twitch, but there are risks that come along with it. Such as - sleep deprivation, stroke or heart diseases, kidney failure, diabetes and depression.
Did you know - Women are affected more than men with RLS.
There is a significant delay in diagnosing RLS. It may begin in childhood, but it is not diagnosed until the third decade of life. But if you feel your legs are running a secret resistance movement against your sleep, don't worry we got you covered. Here are ways to fight it.
The condition can be treated with medications. We advise you to consult a doctor.
Changing your lifestyle routine at home to ease your pain.
Work with your healthcare practitioner to deal with underlying health conditions.
Regular exercises such as aerobics, walking or riding a bike. Refrain from lifting heavy weights and exercises close to bedtime.
Avoid using phones or watching television before sleeping.
Reduce stress.
Gentle massage on your legs or soaking them in warm water to ease the pain.
Avoid caffeine or alcohol as it can be a form of trigger.
Keep a diary to note down your sleep patterns so it’s easier to explain to the doctors.
Doctors would diagnose it based on your family history, symptoms and medical history.
You may need to undergo a physical test; however, RLS is a clinical diagnosis that doesn’t require sleep testing. A general physician should be able to detect it but may recommend you see a neurologist to rule out any other uncertainties.
Also, it’s more challenging to diagnose RLS in children as they are not sure how they feel and cannot express it. This often leads to misdiagnosis.
Restless leg syndrome is honest, annoying and capable of turning bedtime into a personal horror movie. But with the right tricks, you can manage it and (hopefully) reclaim your sleep. Until then, may your legs find peace and your nights be filled with actual rest, not impromptu dance routines.
What is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless Leg Syndrome is a medical condition that causes an unpleasant feeling on the legs such as itching, crawling, aching, pins and needles poking. You need to move your leg to ease the pain for temporary relief. The condition is known to get worse at night.
What are the causes of Restless Leg Syndrome?
The actual cause is unknown and cannot be pinpointed towards one. But genetics, underlying medical conditions, lack of dopamine and iron deficiency are a few causes.
What are the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome?
Few common symptoms are - an urge to move your leg, mild to moderate pain, feel like something is crawling in your legs, worse at night, irritation and sleepless nights.
What age group does restless legs syndrome affect the most?
RLS can affect individuals of any age. But it is more prominently seen in people who are above 40. However, children and adolescents can suffer from RLS as well but may be difficult to diagnose.
Is there a cure for restless legs syndrome?
As of now, there is no cure, but certain medications and lifestyle changes, along with adding exercises in your routine, can help you ease the pain or manage the condition.
