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It is an affliction that affects as many as 15 % of the American population. It is called Restless Legs Syndrome. It usually occurs at night time, when the sufferer gets a crawling feeling up their legs. It is very difficult to ignore and usually relief only comes from getting up and walking around. Lie down again, however, and the pain returns.
Restless Legs Syndrome has been with mankind for a long time. As far back as 1685 a doctor recorded details of a sensation felt by some people upon retiring of ‘so great a restlessness in the arms and legs that they are no more able to sleep than if they were in a place of the greatest torture.’ The Syndrome, however, cannot be diagnosed through medical or laboratory testing. A sufferer can only be identified by the symptoms produced. So, what symptoms would identify a sufferer of Restless Legs Syndrome? Here is a partial list of symptoms to be expected:
(1) Major discomfort in both legs, that seems to crawl from one to the other
(2) Occasional discomfort in the arms
(3) A lessening of pain by walking, bathing or massaging of the legs.
(4) Onset of pain from sitting for long periods in one position
(5) The problem occurring mainly at night
(6) Occasional jerking of the legs while sleeping
A major problem with Restless Legs Syndrome is that it can trigger chronic insomnia. This, of course, leads to fatigue during the daytime. The condition affects both sexes equally though it is more common among older people. The most common age group for first diagnosis is the fifties. RLS is recognized as a neurological disorder. The causes of the condition, have, however, eluded the experts. Generally RLS runs in families. The condition is also quite common among pregnant women, especially in the last stages of their pregnancy. Other factors, such as low iron levels or a lack of certain vitamins can also trigger RLS. Rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes are also factors that can contribute to the condition.
Although there is no cure for RLS, the symptoms can be treated, often without drugs. Sufferers need to experiment with different treatments to find what best works for them. The first step is to determine whether or not there is some treatable underlying condition that is contributing to the RLS. Iron and vitamin supplements, for instance, may correct any dietary deficiency that is triggering the condition. Sufferers should also try cutting back on caffeine and soft drinks to see if this has a beneficial effect. Also try to cut back on alcohol consumption.
Sufferers should also endeavour to establish a consistent sleeping pattern, retiring at the same time each evening. Getting a regular amount of exercise will help to get a good sleep.
When the crawling sensation begins in the legs of a sufferer, the person should not resist the inclination to move. Doing so will only worsen the symptoms. Walking, stretching, bathing or massaging may bring a measure of relief.
There are medications that may help to deal with the symptoms. Sufferers are advised to consult with their medical professional on specifically which drugs to try.
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