Dealing with Restless Leg Syndrome

Do you have a hard time sitting down because of a crawling, gnawing itching pulling or boring pain in your legs? Or have you been awakened from your sleep because your legs were twitching badly? These are all indications of Restless Leg Syndrome or RLS.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, about 10 percent of Americans probably have RLS. Studies have also shown that more than 5 million individuals have been affected by moderate to severe cases of RLS. Restless Leg Syndrome does occur with men and women, but the cases are twice as high with women. RLS symptoms can show up at any age and they can become more frequent and last longer over time*.

It is unclear what the underlying cause of RLS is. It has been associated with iron deficiency, pregnancy, Peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease and advanced kidney disease. RLS has also been related to abnormalities in the way that the body uses and stores iron and dopamine dysfunction as well.

If you are dealing with RLS, you’ll be glad to know there are a number of treatment options out there for you. These treatments are intended to help patients reduce stress and to get their muscles to relax. Some of those treatment options include:

• Gentle stretching
• Massage therapy
• Warm baths

Your doctor might prescribe a low dose of pramipexole or ropinirole which is commonly known as Requip. If your RLS is interrupting your sleep, you doctor might prescribe sinemet, gabapentin, pregabalin or a tranquilizer like clonazepam. If your RLS is associated with iron deficiency, you might be prescribed iron supplements as well.

Are you seeking treatment for RLS? The physicians at our Movement Disorders Center near Seattle can help you deal with the discomfort of Restless Leg Syndrome. Visit us today to learn more about our RLS treatment options.
* http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/restless_legs/detail_restless_legs.htm