Restless Legs Syndrome – Symptoms and Causes
Understanding Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, causes strong urges to move the legs, along with uncomfortable sensations.
These symptoms typically appear during periods of rest, especially in the evening or at night while sitting or lying down. Moving the legs provides temporary relief from the discomfort.
This condition can affect people of any age, though symptoms often worsen as people get older. The sleep disruption caused by RLS can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.
Most people with RLS find relief through a combination of approaches. Simple lifestyle changes and self-care strategies often help manage symptoms. For many patients, medication proves effective when other approaches aren’t sufficient.
Symptoms
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) mainly involves an overwhelming need to move the legs. People with this condition often experience:
Sensations that start during rest periods. The uncomfortable feelings typically begin when you have been sitting or lying down for a while. This might happen during long periods of sitting, such as in a movie theater or on a flight.
Improvement in movement. Moving your legs often eases the discomfort. Walking, stretching, or shaking your legs can help reduce the sensations.
Evening intensification. The symptoms tend to worsen at night.
-
Leg movements during sleep. RLS may occur alongside periodic limb movement disorder, which causes legs to kick or twitch throughout the
night.
The feelings in RLS happen inside the legs rather than on the skin’s surface. Most people experience symptoms on both sides of the body, though arms may sometimes be affected. These sensations are often described as:
- Crawling
- Creeping
- Pulling
- Throbbing
- Aching
- Itching
- Electric-like feelings
Many people find these sensations difficult to explain precisely. They rarely describe them as muscle cramps or numbness, but consistently mention a strong urge to move their legs.
RLS symptoms typically fluctuate in intensity. There may be periods when symptoms disappear completely before returning later.
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice RLS symptoms. This condition can seriously disrupt your sleep patterns, lead to daytime tiredness, and lower your overall quality of life.
Getting proper diagnosis and treatment can help manage these uncomfortable sensations and improve your daily functioning.
Why It Happens
Genetic Factors
RLS sometimes runs in families. When the condition starts before age 40, it often has a genetic link.
Scientists have found specific areas on chromosomes that may contain genes related to RLS. If your parents or siblings have RLS, you might be more likely to develop it.
During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can trigger RLS or make existing symptoms worse, especially in the final three months. Hormonal changes during pregnancy may play a role in causing these uncomfortable sensations.
Many women experience RLS for the first time while pregnant, and symptoms typically go away after giving birth.
Scientists believe RLS might be caused by problems with dopamine, a brain chemical that helps control movement. When dopamine levels are unbalanced, it can affect how your muscles work.
Risk Factors
Restless legs syndrome can affect people of all ages, including children. Your risk increases as you get older, and women are more likely to have this condition than men.
Several health conditions may be linked to restless legs syndrome:
- Nerve damage in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy), often caused by diabetes or alcohol use disorder
-
Low iron levels in the body, which can occur in people who have:
- Stomach or intestinal bleeding
- Heavy menstrual periods
- History of frequent blood donation
Other related conditions include:
| Condition | Connection to Restless Legs Syndrome |
|---|---|
| Kidney failure | May reduce iron levels and change body chemistry |
| Spinal cord problems | Injuries or damage may trigger symptoms |
| Parkinson’s disease | Associated with a higher risk of developing RLS |
Most cases of restless legs syndrome don’t indicate a serious underlying medical problem. However, if you have any of these risk factors, you might be more likely to develop this condition.
Complications
RLS can cause problems that range from mild to severe. Many patients find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.
The impact on sleep can lead to feeling very tired during the day. People with RLS might struggle to nap because symptoms can occur anytime they rest, even when tired.
Severe RLS symptoms may seriously lower quality of life. This ongoing condition can contribute to depression in some patients due to the constant discomfort and sleep disruption.
