Sleep disorder
What is restless legs syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder in which uncomfortable sensations appear in the legs, mainly at bedtime, creating an urge to move them.
This lowers sleep quality and can interfere with daily life.
Symptoms
It occurs most commonly on the inner side of the leg and in the calf, and because the symptoms appear when sitting or resting, they become worse in the evening or at bedtime.
In severe cases you toss and turn all night, bend and straighten the legs, and sit up, stand and lie down repeatedly, making sleep difficult.
- 1
- A crawling sensation in the legs
- 2
- A sensation like electric current
- 3
- A burning sensation
- 4
- A pulling sensation in the muscle
- 5
- A squeezing, tight sensation in the legs
Causes
The exact cause of restless legs syndrome is not yet fully known, but the following factors may be involved.
| Genetic factors | It is known to be linked to family history. |
|---|---|
| Iron deficiency | Symptoms may appear when iron levels in the brain are low. |
| Dopamine imbalance | It may be caused by dysfunction of dopamine, which controls muscle movement in the brain. |
| Chronic disease | It may be linked to chronic conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. |
| Pregnancy | Symptoms may appear especially in the last trimester of pregnancy and usually disappear after delivery. |
Diagnostic methods
Restless legs syndrome can be diagnosed from the symptoms alone, without any special test. However, since the symptoms can also arise from a lack of iron or dopamine, a basic blood test is used to check the body's iron level and to decide on the appropriate treatment.
In addition, if symptoms are unclear or other causes are suspected, electromyography (EMG) or polysomnography (PSG) is performed to evaluate causes such as sleep disorders.
Methods of treatment
Symptoms may improve simply by keeping good habits such as regular stretching and walking.
Iron supplements and drugs acting on dopamine receptors help, and the effect appears quickly.
Vitamin and mineral supplements may also help.
If restless legs syndrome is troubling you, please consult a specialist.
Appointment with Dr. Hong, Seung Bong, Epilepsy & Sleep Center
