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Characteristics of Restless Leg Syndrome Symptoms

legsPerhaps you have experienced one of the most common restless leg syndrome symptoms...one that feels like there is something creeping up your leg, urging you to get up and move around to make it go away.

This is the most common symptom of restless leg syndrome that people complain of, but it is not the only sign of this problem.

If you have symptoms that are getting in the way of relaxation or sleep time, it is important to understand the characteristics of RLS symptoms.

That way, you can head to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options that will help you enjoy rest and relaxation once again.

Describing Restless Leg Syndrome Symptoms

  • Uncomfortable sensations in the legs resulting to irresistible urge to move -- these sensations are often difficult to describe: uncomfortable but not painful, "creepy crawly", "pins and needles", "antsy", "itchy", "burning", "tickling" feeling deep in the legs.
  • Restlessness - expressed in movement and activity -- since moving around can temporarily help relieve the symptoms, the uncomfortable sensations may return immediately after stopping the movement, people often find themselves unable to sleep at night because the RLS is always making them want to move about.
  • Worsening of symptoms when relaxing -- any type of inactivity can trigger the sensations and urge to move: a plane/car ride, sitting or lying - watching TV, sleeping or napping.
  • Symptoms getting worse in the evening and early in the night -- while some individuals only experience RLS at bedtime and others experience it throughout the day and night, most sufferers experience the worst symptoms in the evening and the least in the morning.

Why does it Occur?

The reason for the onset of restless leg syndrome symptoms is not completely known, but there are theories as to why some people experience this condition. Many medical experts believe that the telltale's signs of restless leg syndrome are the result of an imbalance of dopamine in the brain. This is the chemical that sends messages throughout the nervous system to control muscles movement in the body.

sleepingThere is some evidence that restless leg syndrome is hereditary, and it also appears to be more common during stressful times of life and during pregnancy. However, the symptoms during these circumstances may be more temporary in nature, and can disappear on its own once circumstances change.

When does it Occur?

Restless leg syndrome symptoms will most commonly occur when periods of inactivity begin. Just when you lie down and try to relax, that familiar crawling sensation may begin.

Because of this, most people will find that their symptoms won't begin until evening, and will worsen throughout the night. This can be frustrating when you are trying to unwind from your day.

In fact, this can keep you from getting a decent night's rest, leading to insomnia and daytime fatigue in many sufferers. While the RLS symptoms will rarely indicate a more serious medical problem, it can be cumbersome enough to lead many to seek treatment from their doctor.

Treatment Options

hot bathThe good news is that there is plenty you can do to alleviate restless leg syndrome symptoms, from regular exercise and hot baths to medications prescribed by your doctor. For some, lifestyle changes are sufficient to keep restless leg syndrome at bay. In addition to exercise and a warm bath, good sleep habits, relaxation techniques and over the counter pain relievers have been proven to be effective.

For those who cannot find relief through home remedies, your doctor can prescribe a number of different medications including sleep aids and muscle relaxants to combat the problem.

Restless leg syndrome symptoms can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to keep this condition at bay. If you are having trouble with restless leg syndrome, talk to your doctor today.

Please Note

All the Information within this site is for reference only with no guarantee of accuracy; it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Statements about the products efficacy have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

It is important to emphasize that you should not reject mainstream medical attention and guidance and the use of recommended products, treatments, and remedies for individual disorder should be approved and monitored by your health care provider. See disclaimer for more!





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