What is Restless Legs Syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome is a chronic and progressive movement disorder characterized by the urge or need to move the legs. The urge to move the legs is most intense in the evening and at night, while resting. This disorder can disrupt sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall asleep and return to sleep after waking. RLS is twice as common in women as in men, and is also more common in those who exercise less than three hours a month and in smokers.
Symptoms of restless legs syndrome are common, especially in the evening. They typically manifest as uncomfortable sensations such as pain and throbbing in the legs. A constant urge to move them develops, which can also disrupt sleep.
What are the symptoms of restless legs syndrome?
The symptoms of restless legs syndrome can be difficult to describe, manifesting as pain, tingling, burning, and itching, particularly in the feet, legs, and arms. The symptoms of restless legs syndrome, which tend to worsen at night and in the evening, include:
Involuntary leg movements
Pain that worsens at night and in the evening
Feeling of relaxation with movement
Attention deficit
Concentration problems
Itching, burning and throbbing sensation in the legs
Numbness and tingling in the legs again
Weakness and insomnia
Feeling uneasy
Twitching of the legs in the evening and during sleep
What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by decreased muscle control and an irresistible urge to move the legs when the brain lacks sufficient dopamine. Restless legs syndrome creates an irresistible urge to move the legs in the nervous system, and this urge occurs more frequently during rest and sleep. Therefore, restless legs syndrome, a movement disorder, is also associated with sleep.
