Understanding Restless Leg Syndrome

The most important part of any illness is understanding and knowing the best way or ways to treat it and find relief. Restless Leg Syndrome, because it is so much of a mystery for many, it makes finding the answers all that more important.

The first answer needs to be why the symptoms are occurring. Doctors feel genetics play a definite part in who will have the disorder. If family members have a history of RLS, see what has worked for them and what their worst symptoms have been. Not only will this help you, but also your doctor when it comes time to make the diagnoses and subsequently treatment.

Women are more likely to develop RLS than men. Those of middle age and older are those who tend to have more severe symptoms. While somewhat unknown, children and young people do develop symptoms – more commonly when there is family history of the disorder.

Before treatment begins, the question may arise as to whether or not RLS symptoms will go away on their own, doctors say while it is possible, it is quite rare, especially since the disorder tends to develop over time – it is not a random occurrence. For those with RLS, particularly when it is a secondary disease, treating the main disease will often relieve symptoms and sometimes permanently.

There are those who develop RLS that will worry about the possibility of developing a more serious illness, with RLS being just the beginning. This, however, is not the case; Restless leg syndrome is a condition of its own, though at times can be caused by another condition. Things such as iron deficiency or Diabetes treatment will do well, if untreated – the symptoms can become worse, as a result intensify the current RLS symptoms.

Similar to RLS, Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) shows similar symptoms of twitching, and/or jerking of the legs or arms when resting, causing sleeplessness. PLMD does not necessarily lead to RLS, but for some it may be the beginning of RLS. Lack of sleep is one the major results of RLS, due to symptoms being strongest at night when a person lays down to rest. If symptoms are milder, often lifestyle changes can help relieve the discomfort. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, limiting caffeinated drinks and alcohol, along with regular exercise. When symptoms do occur at night or at times of rest, applying a heating pad, or for some ice packs, or soaking in a hot bath will often relax the legs and help with sleep.

Both RLS and PLMD are known to bring about stress, anxiety and bouts of depression. These additional symptoms are important and should be discussed with a doctor so they may be included in a treatment plan. In addition, there are support groups that can be a source of encouragement and information, more importantly the knowing you are not alone.

To begin any type of treatment is sure to visit your doctor bringing with you any information, such as symptoms and possible family history that will be helpful to your doctor. Seeking help even before symptoms begin to affect everyday life.