Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): What is it, and how is it treated?

Did you ever experience that feeling of antsy exhaustion, where your limbs feel restless and heavy? You might be experiencing Restless Leg Syndrome.

RLS is a condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move one’s body to relieve discomfort or sleepiness. Thankfully, there are treatments available for this condition. Keep reading to learn more about RLS and how it can be treated.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a disorder that causes a strong urge to move one’s legs. This urge is usually accompanied by an uncomfortable sensation, such as tingling, cramping, or prickling. Restless legs syndrome typically affects the legs but can also occur in the arms and other parts of the body.

The symptoms are often worse at night and can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. In some cases, the symptoms may be so severe that they result in daytime sleepiness.

There is no cure for RLS, but there are treatments that can help to relieve the symptoms. Exercise, stretching, and massage are often recommended for people with RLS. Medications can also be prescribed to help relieve symptoms, although they may have side effects.

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What tests are used to diagnose restless leg syndrome?

Restless legs syndrome can be a difficult condition to diagnose because there is no single test that can confirm the diagnosis.

Instead, a diagnosis will be based on a combination of your symptoms, medical history, family history, physical examination, and test results. Many people with restless legs syndrome will have a family member who also suffers from the condition, so family history is often one of the most important factors in making a diagnosis.

In addition, your doctor may order blood tests or nerve studies to rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. If you suspect that you may have restless legs syndrome, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and concerns. With careful evaluation, your doctor can help you find the relief you need.

Treatments of Restless Leg Syndrome

See below;

Lifestyle changes

While there is no cure for restless legs syndrome, there are several treatments that can help to ease the symptoms.

Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding stimulants in the evening and getting regular exercise, can be helpful. In addition, certain medications can relieve the discomfort associated with RLS. If you think you may have RLS, reach out to your Scottsdale vein clinic about treatment options.

Medications

There is no cure for RLS, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms. One such treatment is painkillers.

Painkillers can help to relieve the discomfort associated with RLS. However, they may also have side effects, such as drowsiness or nausea. As always, it is important to speak with a doctor before taking any medication.

Dopamine agonists are another type of medication that could help out, they increase levels of dopamine in the brain.

They are often used to treat RLS. Examples of dopamine agonists include pramipexole (Mirapex) and ropinirole (Requip). These medications can be effective at relieving the symptoms of RLS, but they can also cause side effects, such as drowsiness, nausea, and dizziness.

Restless legs syndrome can make it hard to get a good night’s sleep, and medicines for aiding sleep might be prescribed. This can lead to poor concentration during the day, mood changes, and fatigue. If you think you might have restless legs syndrome, speak to your general practitioner. You may be referred for further tests.

What happens if restless leg syndrome goes untreated?

Restless legs syndrome can occur at any time, but it is most commonly experienced at night, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.

If left untreated, RLS can lead to sleep deprivation, fatigue, and mood disorders. In severe cases, it can interfere with a person’s ability to work or take care of their daily responsibilities.

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