Restless legs syndrome is a pathology that refers to neurological disorders. This ailment is characterized by unpleasant sensations in the lower extremities, arising at night and leading to lack of sleep. The patient during rest or sleep experiences burning, tingling, goosebumps. This causes the patient to carry out leg movements. Activity helps to reduce discomfort for a while.
Causes of restless legs syndrome
The disease is rare among children, and in adults it reaches 5-10%. Restless legs syndrome is diagnosed in the elderly. Statistics say that the disease is more common among the female half of the population. Chronic problems with sleep are associated precisely with the syndrome.
In most cases, the disease is primary. In this case, it manifests itself in the patient early. In 30-90% of all cases, the pathology has a hereditary character. External factors also provoke the development of the syndrome.
If the disease is secondary, it occurs in the patient at the age of 45 years. The development of the disease is preceded by metabolic disorders, damage to the vessels and nerves of the legs.
Causes of secondary restless legs syndrome:
- pregnancy;
- iron deficiency;
- renal insufficiency.
Other factors that cause pathology are:
- insufficient amounts of magnesium, folic acid, cyanocobalamin, thiamine in the body;
- amyloidosis;
- diabetes;
- porphyria;
- alcoholism;
- chronic polyneuropathy;
- spinal cord disease;
- vascular lesions.
The nature of the origin of the disease in humans is not fully understood. There are suggestions that the pathology is based on dopaminergic dysfunction. In favor of this opinion is the successful use of dopaminergic agents as a therapy for the disease.
Symptoms of restless legs syndrome
Restless legs syndrome has the following symptoms:
- burning;
- tingling;
- numbness;
- tightness, squeezing;
- heaviness;
- aching pain.
The patient complains of discomfort in the area of the lower legs, sometimes the pain occurs in the thighs, radiating to the trunk. Signs of restless legs syndrome are usually symmetrical, in rare cases there may be asymmetric unilateral manifestations.
In most patients, all symptoms occur when they are lying down – resting or sleeping. Restless legs syndrome occurs in the evening or at night. Unpleasant signs of the disease are reduced if a person begins to move, so during the onset of the syndrome, the patient turns in bed, performs various motor movements.
Preventing attacks of restless legs syndrome
In order not to be tormented by questions about what to do with restless legs syndrome and how to cure it, it is recommended to adjust lifestyle. Proper nutrition, physical activity, adequate rest – all this helps to reduce the frequency of attacks and even completely get rid of them. To minimize the risk of developing restless legs syndrome, doctors recommend adhering to the following rules:
- minimize the use of stimulants: coffee, black tea, cola, energy drinks;
- stop smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages;
- eat properly: the diet should contain basic macro- and microelements in sufficient quantities. In case of excess body weight it is necessary to limit calories by 10-15% of the norm;
- avoid eating sweets and other fast carbohydrates before bedtime;
- if necessary, take multivitamin preparations;
- take a walk in the fresh air before going to bed;
- reduce stress levels where possible;
- avoid staying in the same position for long periods of time;
- go to bed in a well-ventilated and darkened room;
- minimize watching TV and video games before bedtime;
- periodically do foot baths with peppermint and lavender essential oils to relax muscles and relieve spasms.
These measures are also relevant in the case of an existing disease, because in combination with the right treatment they help to minimize the frequency of attacks.
Treatment of restless legs syndrome
When the symptoms of restless legs syndrome are severe, medication is required. The doctor may prescribe drugs that improve dopamine transmission, sedatives, anticonvulsants or myorelaxants. In some cases, iron preparations may be useful if iron deficiency is detected. However, self-prescription of drugs is inadmissible – therapy should be selected by a specialist.
Physiotherapy and alternative methods
Physiotherapy treatments can be used to reduce the severity of symptoms. These include electromyostimulation, magnet therapy, massage and acupuncture. Yoga, stretching and relaxation exercises also have a good effect. Regular exercise can improve blood circulation in the legs and reduce discomfort.
Recommendations for sleep
Since restless legs syndrome interferes with restful sleep, it is important to create comfortable sleeping conditions. The selection of a comfortable mattress and pillow, the use of a warm blanket (to avoid cooling of the legs), as well as the establishment of a sleep schedule will help to reduce the manifestations of the disease. In addition, some patients are helped by a light self-massage of the legs before bedtime.
These additional measures together with the basic recommendations will help to improve the quality of life and reduce the frequency of attacks.
Conclusion
Restless legs syndrome is a condition that significantly reduces the quality of life, causing discomfort and chronic sleep disturbance. Although the nature of this condition is not fully understood, it is known that a combination of proper lifestyle, medication (if necessary) and physical therapy can significantly reduce the manifestations of the disease.
It is important not to ignore the symptoms and timely consult a doctor for diagnosis and selection of appropriate therapy. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, avoidance of bad habits and compliance with sleep patterns play a key role in controlling the disease. A comprehensive approach will help to reduce the frequency of attacks and improve overall health, allowing the patient to lead a full life.
