Restless leg syndrome is a disorder that impacts the nervous system and muscles. It causes a number of unwanted sensations in the legs. Patients often describe feelings of creeping, crawling, tingling, and pulling. They are uncomfortable and very unpleasant. The symptoms are often felt in the calf area, but they can range anywhere from the thigh to the ankle. Additionally, you may feel it in just one of your legs, but you can also experience it in both. Restless leg syndrome causes an irresistible urge to move the affected limb. This can relieve the symptoms, but it is just for a short time. There are a number of conditions linked to restless leg syndrome. Below, you will find more information about the condition and when you should seek medical attention.
Conditions Linked to Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless leg syndrome (“RLS”) is associated with a number of medical conditions. Consider the following conditions to determine if you may be at risk for RLS.
Pregnancy:
Pregnancy comes with hormonal fluctuations that can trigger RLS. For those who experienced RLS before pregnancy, pregnancy can actually exacerbate the condition. RLS is common during the third trimester. For women who did not experience RLS before pregnancy, symptoms generally subside after delivery.
Chronic Conditions:
Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease have been linked to RLS. These often co-occur as the shared neurological mechanisms and dopamine disruptions contribute to RLS. It is critical to address the underlying chronic condition and consult with a sleep specialist about your RLS symptoms.
Mental Health Conditions:
Anxiety and depression are common mental health conditions associated with RLS. The relationship between RLS and mental health conditions is complex. Both are influenced by altered neurotransmitter activities. Mental health conditions can make RLS worse, and alternatively, RLS can negatively impact mental health conditions.
Sleep Disorders:
Certain sleep disorders are often linked with RLS, including insomnia and sleep apnea. Those who have sleep conditions and RLS can struggle with sleep. This includes both the amount of sleep and the quality of your sleep. Consult with a sleep doctor, as they can help address your sleep disorder and RLS through restless leg syndrome treatment.
Anemia:
Iron deficiency has been found to be closely linked with RLS. Low iron levels impact your brain’s dopamine. Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter responsible for regulating movement. When your dopamine levels are disrupted, it can result in unwanted symptoms of RLS. Working with your primary care provider and a sleep specialist can ensure that you have sufficient iron levels and keep RLS symptoms at bay.
Nerve Damage:
Peripheral neuropathy is a form of nerve damage commonly associated with diabetes. It is also linked to RLS-related symptoms. Never damage can trigger the symptoms as it alters the transmission of certain signals to the brain. It’s important to consult with a professional to address the underlying condition and your RLS symptoms.
Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment
RLS can impact your sleep and make your daily life much more difficult. In order to ensure optimal quality of life, contact Sleep MD. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and help you with a customized treatment plan. The condition is diagnosed based on your symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam. Lab tests and a sleep study may also be necessary to determine if you have RLS.
Once diagnosed, a customized treatment plan is created to improve your condition. The type of treatment plan depends on your symptoms, age, and overall health. If an underlying condition is responsible for your RLS symptoms, both issues require treatment. Treatment can include lifestyle changes and medication. Regular checkups are helpful to monitor the condition effectively.
