What Triggers Restless Legs Syndrome

Have you been experiencing strange, aching sensations in your legs at night? When you lie down and relax, do you have a rather compelling urge to stretch and move your legs? If your answer is yes, then you likely have restless legs syndrome (RLS). It’s a neurological disorder that affects up to 10 percent of people in the United States. Anyone can acquire or develop this condition, but it is more commonly seen in women and middle-aged people.

What You Need To Know

Also referred to as Willis-Ekbom disease, RLS may manifest at any age and worsen as years go by. Although the symptoms of this condition vary from one person to another, common signs include tingling, itching, and an aching feeling. Some people experience prickling, tugging, and a burning sensation on their legs.

Sometimes, the symptoms are described as somewhat painful, but they are mostly just uncomfortable and slightly disturbing. There are times that the sensations are hard to explain. RLS usually happens at night when you are sitting or lying down. The unpleasant feeling can be temporarily relieved by moving. RLS symptoms commonly fluctuate in terms of severity. Sometimes, the discomfort goes for a while, then reappear. Overall, restless legs generally disrupt sleep, thus interfering with daily activities.

Causes And Triggering Factors

The cause of restless leg syndrome cases is mostly unknown. However, the condition seems to be linked to the following underlying issues and factors:

· Iron deficiency.

· Imbalance of dopamine.

· Parkinson’s disease.

· End-stage renal disease.

· Nerve damage.

· Medications, such as anti-nausea and antipsychotic drugs.

· Use of certain substances, such as caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.

· Pregnancy, particularly during the last trimester.

· Sleep conditions, such as sleep apnea.

· Genetics.

How To Find Quick Relief From Restless Legs

There are several treatment options to manage restless leg syndrome. These include self-help remedies, lifestyle changes, and medications. However, despite your best efforts, there will be times that the symptoms will flare-up. Here’s what you can do to get immediate relief from the unpleasant feeling:

· Get up and walk around.

· Distract yourself with an activity.

· Try a range of movements, from foot rotation, knee bends, to yoga poses.

· Get a massage or a hot bath to relax your muscles.

· Apply hot or cold packs to your legs.

· Since pressure can help relieve the discomfort, try wearing stockings or compression socks.

Are you having trouble getting enough sleep due to your restless legs? Whatever the triggers are, rest assured that help is available. Our team of sleep experts in Dream in Del Mar will be happy to help you achieve peaceful, refreshing sleep. Call our office today in Del Mar, California, at (858) 213-0303 to schedule your consultation.