December 28, 2007, Newsletter Issue #151: About Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

Tip of the Week

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that results in a restlessness and need to move ones legs. With it typically comes insomnia (the inability to sleep) and affects 12 million Americans.

Research indicates that genetics play a part in who gets RLS. Those with a positive family history of the condition have a 50 percent chance of also having RLS if a first-degree relative also has it.

The four symptoms of RLS:
1. You have a strong urge to move your legs which you may not be able to resist. You also feel the uncomfortable sensations often described as a creeping, itching, pulling, creepy-crawly, tugging or gnawing.

2. Your RLS symptoms start or become worse when you are resting. The longer you are resting, the greater the chance the symptoms will occur and the more severe they are likely to be.

3. Your RLS symptoms get better when you move your legs. The relief can be complete or only partial but generally starts very soon after starting an activity.

4. Your RLS symptoms are worse in the evening especially when you are lying down. Activities that bother you at night do not bother you during the day.

According to Sleep Medicine Reviews, a publication which provides international coverage of sleep disorders, RLS usually follows a chronic course and it may worsen over time in some patients. Talk to your doctor if you think you have restless leg syndrome.

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