Restless legs is a condition, known as restless legs syndrome, or RLS, in which the legs feel extremely uncomfortable when sitting or lying down. The Mayo Clinic states that RLS sufferers constantly want to stand up and move around, so the unpleasant feeling in their legs can go away temporarily. RLS can develop at any age, but generally worsens as individuals age. This condition typically disrupts sleep, leading to daytime drowsiness, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Mechanism
Restless legs syndrome causes unpleasant sensations that begin during inactivity, such as lying or sitting for an extended period of time, according to the Mayo Clinic. The sensations lessen when individuals get up and move, such as by stretching, rubbing their legs, pacing, walking or exercising. The Mayo Clinic states symptoms are typically less bothersome during the day and are felt primarily at night.
Causes
The cause for restless leg syndrome is unknown in most cases. However, researchers believe the condition may be due to an imbalance of the brain chemical dopamine, which sends messages to the brain to control muscle movement, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Risk Factors
More than half the individuals who suffer from restless legs syndrome develop it from their genetics, according to the Mayo Clinic. The clinic states that researchers have found potential sites on chromosomes where genes for RLS may be present.
Pregnancy can also increase an individual's risk for RLS, especially during the third trimester according to the Mayo Clinic. According to the clinic, after birth RLS usually subsides.
Symptoms
Individuals with restless legs syndrome typically develop unpleasant sensations in their calves, thighs, feet or arms. RLS sufferers tend to describe the unpleasant sensations as crawling, tingling, cramping, creeping, pulling, painful, itchy, uncomfortable, aching and burning.
Diagnosis
A physician diagnoses restless legs syndrome based on symptoms, medical and family histories, and the results from a physical exam and tests, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. During the physical exam, the physician will check for underlying conditions that may trigger RLS. Blood tests will be ordered to measure iron levels. The physician may order muscle and/or nerve tests as well. The results of these tests will determine whether a patient has a condition that may worsen RLS or if they have symptoms similar to RLS.
Treatment
Restless legs syndrome has no cure, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. However, RLS can be treated. The goals of treatment are to prevent or relieve symptoms, improve sleep quality and to correct any underlying condition that may trigger or worsen RLS. Patients with mild cases of RLS are treated with lifestyle changes and periodic usage of medication, but patients with severe RLS are treated with daily medications.
