Tracing the Roots of Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a unique condition of a painful sensation in the legs, which tends to aggravate with rest and sleep. The condition is often referred to as some kind of neurological disorder, characterized by a burning, creeping and tugging sensation of the legs, yearning for movement in order to seek some temporary relief. The abnormal painful feeling of the legs is often termed as paresthesias - that has no specific root to its occurrence as such.

The unique RLS is associated with an irritating and painful sensation, as well as, uncomfortable condition. The condition is inevitably related to persistent fatigue and exhaustion, inability to concentrate accurately and a constant irritation on the mind and body. Quite amazingly, the patients suffer the most while relaxing or in their sleep. The syndrome takes a huge toll on the physical, mental and relationship aspects of the patient. The condition can bar people from attaining their goals, often leading them into depression.

While the symptoms and occurrence of the condition is most common among women, men are also easily prone to experiencing the pain. However, the pain and the symptoms aggravate with aging and, if not treated, may lead to further ailing syndromes. Though middle-aged and older patients fall easy prey to RLS, younger patients are not ruled out of its grasp.

What causes RLS? Several physical deformities and deficiencies pave the way for causing RLS, and approximately 25-75% of the RLS cases reported are due to heredity issues. Certain chronic diseases and health conditions may also lead to RLS.

Previously, some specialists claimed the condition to be caused by a disease in the blood vessels of the legs or by some nervous disorder. However, advanced studies revealed that the condition may be occurring due to some malfunctioning of neurotransmitters that are dedicated to muscle regulation and movement. Some issues in the central nervous system may also lead to the same.

Certain medical and physical abnormalities, such as low iron levels or anemia, often lead to RLS. Hemoglobin deficiency can pave the way for abnormalities in muscle movement and regulation. Certain chronic ailments also add up to cause RLS. Parkinson's disease, kidney failure, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy are some of the major causes of concern for the occurrence of RLS. Proper treatment of the associated condition prevents the recurrence of the RLS, curing it completely from the core.

For some pregnant women RLS can be really painful and intolerable. The last three months before delivery is often associated with the symptoms concerning RLS that usually disappear within a month of delivery in most cases.

Certain anti-seizure, anti-psychotic, and anti-nausea medications can aggravate RLS to a greater extent. Additionally, caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol are considered to be the greatest boosters of RLS. The condition is often associated with heavy drinking and chain smoking.