Restless Leg Syndrome is a common but often undiagnosed disorder that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. It’s also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease or RLS. Most sufferers cannot sleep because they worry about when their next leg movement will be and how it will disrupt their sleep. For many years, doctors didn’t know what caused restless legs syndrome, but research has led to effective remedies in recent decades. In El Paso, TX, some board-certified general surgeons can offer the proper assistance if you’re struggling with it. The specialists in restless leg syndrome in El Paso will tailor a treatment based on your condition.
What is Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)?
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a common disorder that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs. The desire to move comes upon during rest or inactivity but ceases when the movement starts. Moving around can ease some RLS symptoms, but the urges begin again once the individual returns to stillness.
Most sufferers cannot sleep because they worry about when their next leg movement will be and how it will disrupt their sleep. RLS affects both men and women equally, and many patients report having restless leg syndrome at least since childhood. It usually begins between ages 20-40, but some teens experience it as well.
Which Are the Risk Factors?
Anyone can develop restless leg syndrome; however, other conditions make a person more susceptible. One of those risk factors is iron deficiency, which affects nearly 2 billion people worldwide. Other aspects include peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease, anemia, hormonal changes, neuropathy, and spinal cord problems.
How is Restless Leg Syndrome Diagnosed?
The first step to diagnosing RLS is a complete medical history and physical examination. The doctor needs to know if the patient has other health issues, such as diabetes, if they take certain medications, how many hours of sleep they get during the night, and what time they go to bed. These questions will help determine the severity of the symptoms.
The doctor also needs to find out if any family members have been diagnosed with restless leg syndrome. People often self-diagnose their condition due to reading about it online or hearing about someone else’s case.
What is the Treatment Like?
There is no cure for restless leg syndrome, but treatments can help manage RLS symptoms. The doctor may recommend some lifestyle changes, including eating a healthy diet and avoiding caffeine.
However, iron supplements can ease many patients’ symptoms by replenishing their bodies’ stores of essential minerals. Some people find relief with natural remedies like massage and regular exercising. You’ll also get guidance on the need to avoid caffeine.
Generally, the specialists will customize a treatment depending on the severity of your condition. Restless leg syndrome is a complex condition, and it can require multiple treatment plans. Your doctor will likely adjust your medication, dosage, or schedule based on the progress.
Restless leg syndrome can be a debilitating condition that affects sufferers in many ways, including their sleep. With the help of our El Paso general surgeons, you may find relief with natural remedies like massage and regular exercising. You’ll also get guidance on the necessary lifestyle changes to make.