Disruption of dopamine pathways may result in the involuntary movements that are characteristic of RLS ( 4) There is strong evidence to suggest that RLS may result from an imbalance of dopamine, a brain chemical involved in regulating muscle movement as well as reward, attention, and memory. Though the exact mechanism behind RLS is unclear, it is likely caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. RLS Fact: Restless Legs Syndrome was first described in medical literature in 1672 by English physician Sir Thomas Willis What Causes Restless Legs Syndrome? The sensations may occur during a long car or plane ride, while watching a movie, or while lying in bed Symptoms worsen in the evening and when the afflicted person is lying or sitting for extended periods of time.Moving or stretching the limbs temporarily relieves the symptoms, which return when movement is stopped.A powerful urge to move the legs in an effort to reduce the uncomfortable sensations associated with the disorder.Less commonly, the feeling of discomfort may occur in the feet, arms ( 3), chest, or head The sensations can occur on one or both sides of the body, or alternate between the two sides. An uncomfortable feeling in the legs that may be described as itchy, throbbing, achy, crawling, pulling, or similar to pins and needles or electric shocks.Secondary RLS may resolve when the precipitating disorder is treated.īoth the primary and secondary forms of Restless Legs Syndrome are characterized by the following symptoms: In secondary RLS, the condition is often provoked by another medical condition, drug, or vitamin/mineral deficiency. Primary RLS is more common than the secondary form, and is typically associated with a positive family history of the disorder. ( 2) In primary or idiopathic RLS, the cause of the disorder is unknown. Symptoms of Restless Legs Syndromeīecause RLS follows a circadian rhythm, symptoms of discomfort and restlessness commonly worsen at night, disrupting an affected person’s ability to fall and/or stay asleep.Ĭases of Restless Legs Syndrome are generally classified as either primary or idiopathic, or secondary. If you feel you may be suffering from any sleep disorder or medical condition, please see your healthcare provider immediately. Note: The content on Sleepopolis is meant to be informative in nature, but it shouldn’t taken as medical advice, and it shouldn’t take the place of medical advice and supervision from a trained professional. The disorder is not fatal, but can have a profound affect on sleep, health, and quality of life. RLS affects approximately 8% of the population in the United States, though this number may be low due to under-diagnosis. The condition causes uncomfortable sensations in the limbs, as well as an overwhelming urge to move in an attempt to gain relief from those sensations. RLS is a sensory and motor disorder that can impact a person’s ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or remain still for extended periods of time.Īlso known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, Restless Legs Syndrome is considered both a neurological disorder and a sleep disorder. These are the symptoms experienced by sufferers of Restless Legs Syndrome, or RLS. For some people, nights aren’t a time of relaxation, but of restlessness, strange sensations, and even pain.
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