What is restless legs syndrome, what are its symptoms? How is it treated?

Experts have announced that 'restless legs syndrome' is seen in one out of every 10 people. What is restless legs syndrome, what are its symptoms? How is restless legs syndrome treated?

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What is restless legs syndrome, what are its symptoms? How is it treated?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a chronic, progressive movement disorder characterized by abnormal sensations that arise with an urge or need to move the legs.

Also known in the medical world as Willis-Ekbom disease, Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a chronic movement disorder that occurs when an individual feels an uncontrollable urge or need to move their legs due to an uncomfortable sensation.

This condition usually occurs while sitting or lying down during the evening or nighttime hours. Moving provides temporary relief from the feeling of discomfort.

CAN LEAD TO DIFFICULTY IN ACTIVITIES

Restless legs syndrome can begin at any age and generally worsens with advancing age.

When it reaches levels that interfere with sleep patterns, it can lead to difficulties in daily activities.

A few simple self-care measures may be sufficient to alleviate the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. However, there are various medications available that can help individuals with more severe RLS problems.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME?

-A feeling of restlessness in the legs and feet

-A constant need to move due to the feeling of restlessness

-Pain and discomfort that increase during nighttime hours

-A feeling that the pain and restlessness are briefly reduced by moving the affected area

HOW IS RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME TREATED?

Physical Therapy: In patients with mild symptoms of restless legs syndrome, non-pharmacological treatment methods should be tried before prescribing medications that may have various side effects.

Light-to-moderate physical activity such as stretching exercises before sleep and warm baths can be effective.

Drug Therapy: The first dopaminergic drug used for restless legs syndrome is levodopa (with a decarboxylase inhibitor). It is recommended to start at the lowest possible dose and increase the dose gradually as needed.

It provides significant improvement in symptoms within approximately 4 weeks. The most common side effects observed with dopaminergic agents are gastrointestinal system side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dyspepsia.

News Source: 12punto