Can't Stop Your Legs? Understanding Restless Leg Syndrome May Help.

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) produces an uncomfortable state of affairs. It is accompanied by an urge to move that cannot be satisfied. It happens when you try to rest. Once you move, the symptoms get better. Some people experience annoying sensations, such as tugging in the legs, or a feeling that something is crawling over their skin. Restless leg syndrome is worse in the early evening and at night, making it impossible to relax. The diagnosis is made based on symptoms and family history of the syndrome.

Scientists have been studying the phenomenon in an effort to pinpoint the cause and treatment, but to date, insights are limited.

Here are some facts about RLS according to experts that might help with symptom management:

Restless Leg Syndrome seems to run in families. Scientists have found a gene variant that is common in 65% of the population - the variant is 80% higher in those with RLS.

Lower iron is associated with RLS. Those who possess the gene variant that causes RLS typically have lower stores of iron, exacerbating the problem.

RLS is associated with drops in Dopamine levels. The availability of Dopamine in the brain naturally drops in the evening, but it is accentuated in those diagnosed with RLS. Hypothetically, replacing Dopamine may be a treatment option, but further studies are needed to define the association. Speculation exists that iron reacts with Dopamine to cause Dopamine deficiency.

Certain classes of medications make RLS worse for women - antihistamines and over the counter sleep aids, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine (found in cold medications) have been frequently reported to make the symptoms worse. Many prescribed antidepressants also contribute to increased leg movement.

Diet can also play a role - a high carbohydrate load, wine, and caffeine can bring on attacks.

High blood pressure and other cardiovascular risks are associated with a higher incidence of RLS.


If you think you may be suffering from restless leg syndrome, speak with your physician. A thorough history and physical exam will help your doctor make a definite diagnosis. Try limiting alcohol and high intake of carbohydrates in the evening. Iron deficiency is measured by testing for levels of ferritin in the blood. Ask your doctor for a blood test. If you are on antidepressants, find out if your medication might be the culprit.

Healthcare providers are urged to screen patients for underlying medical conditions that can cause RLS, such as low iron stores or kidney failure, especially in the absence of family history of RLS. African Americans and Asians have a lower genetic predisposition to the disease, presenting a "red flag" to healthcare providers to look for an underlying medical issue.

Ongoing research will hopefully provide further insight about the cause and treatment of RLS - for those who suffer, it cannot occur soon enough.

Visit the Restless Leg Foundation for more information.

If you are looking for a natural alternative to traditional medication, you may want to read more. Sedorum
has been specifically formulated to reduce the troubling symptoms associated with Restless Leg Syndrome.
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