What is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS, also referred to as Wittmaack-Ekbom’s syndrome or Nocturnal myoclonus) is a term used to describe a disorder characterized by sensory symptoms and motor disturbances of the limbs. Restless Legs Syndrome is a common cause of painful legs. The leg pain of restless leg syndrome typically eases with motion of the legs and becomes more noticeable at rest. Also, Restless Legs Syndrome consists of symptoms worsening during the early evening or later at night. Insomnia can result due to the worsening of symptoms in persons with frequent Restless Legs Syndrome. Restless Legs Syndrome usually begins slowly. Over time, the legs become more affected. Less frequently, Restless Leg Syndrome can affect the arms.
People suffering with RLS have difficulty in trying to depict their symptoms; they may report sensations such as an almost irresistible urge to move the legs, which are not painful but are distinctly bothersome; this can lead to significant physical and emotional disability. The sensations usually are worse during inactivity and often interfere with sleep, leading to walking discomfort, chronic sleep deprivation, and stress. Once correctly diagnosed, RLS can usually be treated effectively by relieving symptoms; in some secondary cases, it can even be cured.
Many people tap their feet or shake their legs resulting from a nervous tic, consumption of stimulants, drug side-effects or other factors; this is usually innocuous, unnoticed, and does not interfere with daily life. People with Restless Leg Syndrome the nervous tics are very noticeable; they feel an indescribable sensation in their legs that can most closely be compared to a burning, itching sensation in the muscles of the legs or arms.
Restless Leg Syndrome at a Glance:
- Restless Leg Syndrome is a condition marked by unpleasant leg sensations at bedtime.
- Restless Leg Syndrome frequency leads to insomnia.
- The cause of Restless Leg Syndrome is unknown in most patients, but many conditions have been associated with it.
- Treatment of Restless Leg Syndrome is directed toward any underlying illness, if known.
- Medications are available for Restless Leg Syndrome.