restless legs syndrome

definition

Restless legs syndrome is a neurological sleep disorder that causes patients to feel uncomfortable in their legs and want to move their legs to relieve the discomfort. Restless legs syndrome often makes it difficult for patients to fall asleep, and symptoms are often worse in the evening and at night. Most patients with restless legs syndrome describe the uncomfortable feeling as a foreign object crawling or squirming in their legs. Some patients feel itching in their legs when they lie down to rest at night. The above symptoms will gradually disappear after the patient moves his legs or gets up and walks around.

Cause

The causes of restless legs syndrome vary from person to person. The cause is often unclear or may be caused or worsened by other health problems or medications. Possible causes include:

1. Low blood iron levels: Low iron levels may cause problems with brain cell communication, leading to restless legs syndrome.

2. Diabetes: Diabetes can cause restless legs syndrome by damaging blood vessels and nerves in the leg muscles. Effective management of diabetes can help prevent or improve restless legs syndrome.

3. Kidney failure: Restless legs syndrome is common in people with kidney failure, but the exact cause is unknown.

4. Pregnancy: Many women suffer from restless legs syndrome during pregnancy, which usually goes away within a month after delivery.

5. Drugs: Some drugs such as anti-allergic drugs, antidepressants, etc. may cause restless legs syndrome.

Approach

Patients with iron deficiency anemia and pregnant women can supplement with appropriate amounts of iron to improve restless legs syndrome. Patients with mild symptoms can reduce their symptoms by improving their daily habits. For example, after dinner, avoid caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, etc.), smoking, and alcohol.

If the problem persists, please seek professional advice from your doctor.