Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): Causes & Relief Strategies
Understand restless leg syndrome, its impact on sleep, iron deficiency connection, and evidence-based treatments for relief.
Key Points
- RLS causes uncomfortable leg sensations and urge to moveSymptoms worsen at night, interfering with sleep onsetOften linked to iron deficiency, pregnancy, or kidney diseaseTreatment includes iron supplementation (if deficient) and medicationsAvoiding triggers (caffeine, alcohol) can help
Symptoms & Diagnosis
RLS causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs (tingling, crawling, aching) and an irresistible urge to move them. Symptoms: worsen at rest, especially evening/night; relieved temporarily by movement; interfere with sleep onset. Diagnosis is clinical (based on symptoms), but blood tests check for iron deficiency.
Treatment Approaches
First-line: Check ferritin levels; supplement if <75 ng/mL
Lifestyle: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, antihistamines; regular exercise
Medications (if needed): Dopamine agonists, gabapentin, iron infusion
Work with a sleep specialist or neurologist for persistent RLS.
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