CARE
Posted October 21, 2021
Your busy lifestyle requires enough rest to keep up with all the to-dos. But when restless legs syndrome kicks in at night, getting enough sleep might seem impossible. Keep reading to explore common symptoms and access the right care for you.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a surprisingly common condition that irritates the legs. It gives you the urge to move your legs for relief. RLS happens most often in the evening when you are sitting or trying to sleep.
It can also happen when you aren’t active, like riding in a car or watching a movie. People with RLS often struggle to get a good night’s sleep because the constant urge to move their legs keeps them awake.
Restless legs syndrome can start at any age, even during childhood, but it’s more common as people get older. It’s more common in women than men. The exact cause of RLS is not clear. But there are several risk factors associated with the condition.
The most common symptom is an irresistible urge to move your legs. You may have RLS if you experience:
While your schedule is also restless, you don’t need to take unpleasant RLS symptoms in stride. Get the right care and make time for lifestyle changes to ease your RLS symptoms. Home remedies for restless legs syndrome include:
When lifestyle changes don’t improve your symptoms, your doctor might add medication to your restless legs syndrome treatment plan. Common medications for RLS include:
Ask your doctor if any of your current medications can trigger restless legs syndrome. Your doctor will talk with you about the different medications and each of its side effects.
Restless legs syndrome does more than bring on sleep challenges and disrupt your schedule. Left untreated, it can impact your mental health, work performance and quality of life. RLS can trigger anxiety, depression and make it challenging to be the best version of yourself.
There isn’t a diagnostic test for restless legs syndrome. Your health care provider can confirm your RLS diagnosis by asking questions about your symptoms, sleep quality, lifestyle and overall health.
Take back your ability to recharge for those who count on you. See a sleep medicine specialist to diagnose restless legs syndrome and explore the best treatment options for you.
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