Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition in which a sudden urge to move one’s legs is caused, which can be often a result of an unpleasant feeling. The urge to move can be more like a reflex but does not take much time to develop into an unpleasant mannerism that is pretty hard to get rid of eventually.
The feeling can be untimely which results in sleep deprivation since the urge to move your legs can disturb your sleep and often result in added problems along with insomnia. Sleep deprivation then gives way to problems like daytime sleepiness, low energy, irritability, and depression amongst a number of side effects.
Restless leg syndrome is one of the major causes of known sleep disorders and is a result of the nervous system being affected, which triggers the sudden urge. The symptoms and severity of restless leg syndrome will, of course, vary from person to person and can get worse during the evening or at night which ultimately leads to disturbed sleep patterns.
It is estimated that almost 10% of the country’s population suffers from restless leg syndrome and affects both men as well as women, the condition being more prominent and common in women. There is no particular age at which this syndrome is dominant, but the condition can get quite severe for middle-aged people or people who are older.
Although identifying the symptoms is easy and they can be treated quite successfully, the diagnosis of this condition often is not accurate due to intermittent symptoms. Some of the symptoms can be confused with other medical conditions similar to the symptoms of RLS.
Although there are no specific causes of restless leg syndrome, here are some common factors that affect the syndrome:
Pregnancy: Since this condition is more common in women, pregnancy is one of those times when restless leg syndromes can be expected on a regular basis, during the last trimester especially. But these symptoms have been known to fade out gradually after delivery.
Medications: Certain types of medications like antidepressants, cold and allergy medicines, sedating antihistamines, and anti-nausea medications can worsen the symptoms of restless leg syndrome and make it more difficult to overcome at the same time.
Chronic disorders: Chronic means persistent, which means the condition and its symptoms can last a lifetime. Some of the common chronic disorders that have been known to show similar symptoms of RLS include diabetes, kidney failure, Parkinson’s disease, and even a common iron deficiency.
As mentioned earlier, there is no proper way to diagnose RLS and its symptoms which is why a proper course of treatment cannot be prescribed on time. Certain parameters like family history, patient records, symptoms which can be identified leading to RLS have to be taken into account o conclusive say that a person is suffering from restless leg syndrome.
There are targeted treatments available to cure RLS, but here are some of the best non-medicated treatments available as effective restless leg syndrome remedy options.
Avoiding certain drinks and beverages: Food and drinks like coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, and even common foods that contain that contain these substances should be avoided. Consuming alcohol and having tobacco can trigger and even worsen the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Kicking the habit altogether is the only solution which is a great restless leg syndrome remedy.
Medications: It is advisable to never buy or have any medication without a proper prescription submitted by a licensed practicing medical professional. However, certain medications like muscle relaxers, sleep aids will help RLS along with over the counter drugs which can prove to be an effective restless leg syndrome remedy.
Vitamins and minerals: It is no secret that the body needs a number of vitamins and minerals to survive and in the right quantity as well. Certain deficiencies may be the cause of RLS and thus increasing their intake as naturally as possible can prove to be quite an effective restless leg syndrome remedy. Dietary supplements which are rich in iron, folic acid, magnesium, and vitamin B will help in countering the symptoms of RLS, but again should not be taken without a prescription.
Sleep: The biggest problem and symptom of RLS is sleep deprivation, which again leads to associated triggers of RLS. Maintaining a proper sleep schedule can help control the urge to move your legs in an untimely manner and can be an effective restless led syndrome remedy. Your sleeping environment has to be designed in such a manner that it immediately induces peaceful and undisturbed sleep.
Exercise: Proper exercise and regular activity can actually help with a ton of health problems. In fact, most health problems are caused due to inactivity. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet can prove to be the most effective restless leg syndrome remedy. Even hot and cold massage therapies which include hot packs and ice packs can help give you some relief.
With these and more restless leg syndrome remedy options, one can find relief from the discomfort experienced in this condition.
