Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a disorder characterized by constant,
uncomfortable, itching, wormy, tingling, pins-and-needles sensations
in the legs.It occurs only during periods of inactivity and rest.
Moving the legs is the only way to relieve this uneasy feeling.
It is estimated that RLS affects 8% of the population and tends
to get worse with age.
Causes
The cause for RLS is unknown and can be seen as reaction to an
underlying condition. There are many conditions and causes associated
with RLS. These include:
- Reaction to post-operative anesthetic
- Chronic renal failure
- Spinal cord conditions and injuries
- Metabolic disorders
- Diabetes
- Anemia and hemoglobin deficiencies
- Iron deficiency
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Uremia
- Chronic lung deficiency
- Leukemia
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Certain medications
Treatment
There are certain types of medications used to treat RLS. Benzodiazepines
(sleeping pills), drugs used to treat Parkinson' disease and other
narcotics can be used to significantly reduce or eliminate the symptoms
of RLS. This is a life-long condition and although there is more
research being done on RLS, there is still no cure.
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