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Restless Leg SyndromeRestless leg syndrome is a common problem of painful legs. The leg pain of restless leg syndrome eases with motion of the legs and becomes more noticeable at rest. Restless leg syndrome features worsening of symptoms during the early evening or late at night. The nighttime worsening of symptoms in persons with restless legs syndrome frequency leads to insomnia. Restless leg syndrome generally begins slowly. With time, the legs become more affected. Less frequently does restless leg syndrome affect the arms. Sometimes, restless legs run in
families. Recent studies have shown that restless leg syndrome appears to be more common with age.
Causes Of Restless Leg Syndrome
The cause of restless leg syndrome is unknown to most patients. However, restless leg syndrome has been associated with pregnancy, obesity, smoking, iron deficiency and, anemia, nerve disease, polyneuropathy (which can be associated with, hypothyroidism, heavy metal toxicity, toxins, and many other conditions), other hormone disease, such as diabetes, and kidney failure(which can be associated with vitamin and mineral deficiency). Some drugs and medications have been associated with restless leg syndrome including caffeine, alcohol, H2-histamine blockers (such as Zantac and Tagamet) and certain antidepressants (such as Elavil). There are many conditions which can be like restless leg syndrome including muscle diseases, joint conditions, nerve problems, and circulation difficulties.
Treatment Of Restless Leg Syndrome
Treatment for restless leg syndrome is first directed towards any underlying illness, if known. Reduction or elimination of caffeine and alcohol can be of help. Stop smoking can also diminish symptoms. Getting better sleep and exercise can help some persons affected by restless legs.
Medications used to treat restless leg syndrome include carbidopa- levodopa, opioids (such as propoxyphene) or tramadol (Ultram) for intermittent symptoms, carbamazepine, clonazepam, diazepam, triazolam, temazepam, baclofen. The FDA has now approved ropinirole (Requip) for the treatment of restless leg syndrome.
Other treatments that have been helpful for some patients include
* avoiding caffeine
* warm/cold baths
* electric nerve stimulation
* oral magnesium
* acupuncture.
Restless leg syndrome is a life-long problem for which there is no cure. Symptoms may slowly worsen with age. Because symptoms intensify by inactivity and lying down, patients often have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Left untreated, it causes exhaustion and fatigue, which can affect occupational performance, social activities, and family life.
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