Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Cure For Restless Legs

By Tess Dingson


Do you stay awake by an uncomfortable, tingling feeling in your legs or arms when you are about to get some sleep? Do these feelings make you have an immediate urge to move your legs? If you have a positive answer to these questions, chances are, you are suffering from an illness known as restless legs syndrome or RLS.

The name of this neurological disorder may sound weird but it can often result to sleep interruption and stress. The only time that people affected by RLS can relieve the unexplainable sensations felt usually on the legs is to move them. These can result in pacing the floor, frequent change in sleeping positions, or alternately stretching and bending the legs. Living with this condition can be agonizing especially if you can't exactly describe those nagging sensation in your limbs.

One theory behind Restless Leg Syndrome is an imbalance in dopamine levels. One important function of this neurotransmitter is the voluntary or controlled movement which is necessary for humans to carry out certain activities. Lack of iron in the brain's center is also listed as one of the sources.

Another finding reported from a study conducted by a French Canadian group indicates that Restless Legs Syndrome genetically runs within some families. It can be gotten when you are young and get worse. Kidney failure, peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson's disease and other medical conditions can also be the cause of why it develops. Few medications can increase RLS like cold & allergy drugs, anti-nauseatic etc.

Since the symptoms can appear to be normal most of the time patients seeking medical attention may not be taken seriously as RLS may be inaccurately diagnosed. It can be confused with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, insomnia, or just a case of bad nerves. Properly identifying all the symptoms can help doctors prescribe a way of easing the discomfort associated with RLS. There are many medications available for the treatment of restless leg syndrome.

Drugs and other remedies may provide significant relief for restless leg syndrome. Relief from the condition can markedly improve the quality of sufferers lives. Restless leg syndrome cures for mild to moderate cases can start with lifestyle changes. Patients ought to reduce their intake of caffeine and alcohol, such as smokers and coffee drinkers. People with RLS may find that cutting back on these substances lead to improved symptoms.

A good sleep habit is also suggested. Stick to a regular sleep schedule and apply heating pads to relax the muscles in the legs. A drug in low doses that can be increased if needed can be part of the treatment for restless leg syndrome. Not all drugs containing dopaminergic agents, benzodiazepines, and anticonvulsants may work for RLS.

Simple treatments for Restless Leg Syndrome can help restore your sleep patterns. If you want to remedy RLS symptoms, taking a daily stroll may help; but be sure not to exercise too much close to bedtime as this may make the condition worse. Paying attention to your diet can help correct iron, magnesium, and folate levels in your body. It seems that weight loss can oftentimes lessen the severity of RLS.

While people don't die from it, restless legs syndrome can still make life unpleasant. Learning about the symptoms, causes and treatment will be a big help not only for RLS patients but also for their family and friends.




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