Restless legs syndrome is a sensory disorder associated with the feeling of discomfort in legs almost irresistible urge to move legs. This usually occurs when you try to rest or sleep.
Studies show that RLS is caused by poor functioning of the part of the brain which uses dopamine, named "basal ganglia".
Do I have Restless leg syndrome?
If you have all of the following symptoms you probably have RLS:
- Involuntary impulse and urge to move, with the uncomfortable sensation in legs
- This feeling enhances when resting or having no activity
- Relieved by movement or stretching
- Getting worse at night
The uncomfortable sensation mentioned above as patients described can be the feeling as “creepy-crawly,” jittery, internal itch, shock-like, or painful sensation. It also can happen in other parts of the body including arms.
Causes
The main causes of the syndrome are:
- Iron deficiency
- Folate deficiency
- Pregnancy, which usually will dissolve 4 weeks after delivery
- Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine consumption
- Some medicine usage can cause this syndrome, consult your doctor to get to know about your medicine's side effects.
Factors which make RLS worse
- Irregular sleep-wake schedule
- Sleep restriction
- Soporific environment
- Consumption of caffeine, alcohol, biogenic amines
- Having too little or overly intense physical activity
- Smoking
Treatment
Some supplements which have a positive effect on your body's dopamine level are phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine.
These supplements are energy releasing and the best time to take them is in the morning or before midnight.
Suggested Reading: Impact of Daily Intake of Vitamin D on Chronic Diseases
