Restless leg syndrome, or RLS, is a problem that affects 10 percent of the population in the U.S., according the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The exact cause is unknown. One theory suggests this disorder may run in families and be genetic. The intake of salt is not a proven factor in the development of restless legs. See your doctor if you are having difficulty sleeping with RLS.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless legs is a term that applies to a group of symptoms. When a person has restless leg syndrome, they develop a need to move their legs constantly. The feeling may be different for each person and each instance. Generally, the symptoms range from a creepy feeling in the legs to pain. RLS is a malfunction of the neurological system. The nerves in the legs send the wrong signals. This results in irritation that causes the agitation. More women complain about restless legs than men and most often the symptoms surface at night.
Triggers
While there is no identifiable cause for the malfunction, there may be triggers that set it off. Being overtired is one possible initiator. RLS may be the result of a chronic illness. Treating the primary condition may help to reduce the incidents. Medication may be one cause of the uncomfortable feeling. Antihistamines, for example, may trigger the problem. Other possible culprits include pregnancy and alcohol. RLS seems to generate more often as you grow older. Excess salt is not considered a potential trigger.
Treatments
There is no cure for RLS. Treatment focuses on controlling the symptoms and eliminating the triggers. Lifestyle changes may help reduce RLS. Smoking, excess caffeine, dietary supplements and irregular sleep patterns may all be contributing factors. A regular exercise program may help reduce the problems. Your doctor may want to check the iron levels in your blood. This is some evidence that anemia may promote the illness. There are prescription medications, as well, available for severe cases of RLS. For some, soaking in a hot bath with Epsom salts helps to reduce the feeling. This is the only function salt plays in the management of RLS.
Considerations
Stretching your legs before going to bed is more helpful in the management of RLS than monitoring salt intake. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends you place yourself in front of a wall around 30 inches away from the surface. Place your palms face down on the wall. Slowly walk the hands up to eye level. This helps to stretch calf muscles and may reduce the nervous feeling in your legs. Do this before the symptoms starts.
