Causes of Restless Legs Syndrome

CAUSES OF RESTLESS  LEGS SYNDROME

Causes of restless legs syndrome. A brain, nerve, and sleep disorder known as restless legs syndrome (RLS) results in a strong, almost uncontrollable desire to move your legs, which is at least somewhat alleviated by movement. In the evening, when your body is at rest, symptoms are more prevalent. It typically happens in addition to unpleasant leg pains like aching or throbbing. Your ability to unwind or fall asleep may be hampered by the need to move all the time.

CAUSES OF RESTLESS  LEGS SYNDROME

An intense desire to move the legs is a symptom of restless legs syndrome (RLS). An painful sensation in the legs is typically the reason of the impulse to move. It usually occurs while sitting or lying down in the evening or at night. Moving temporarily relieves the ache.

Types

Early onset: The illness typically runs in your biological family history, is diagnosed before the age of forty-five, and develops gradually.
Late onset: RLS develops more rapidly and is diagnosed after the age of forty-five.

Symptoms

Among the signs of restless legs syndrome are: Uncomfortable sensations that compel you to move your legs.
Resting makes the sensations worse.
soreness that is relieved when you move your legs, at least momentarily.
jerky or twitchy legs at night and while you’re sleeping.
Sleep might be disrupted by symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Sleep disturbances, trouble falling or staying asleep, and other issues may result from this.
the desire to move your legs or stretch them by getting out of bed.
drowsiness or exhaustion during the day.
Changes in mood or behavior.
inability to focus, pay attention, or recall things.
Anxiety or depression.

Genetic: RLS can be inherited; one of your biological parents may pass on an autosomal dominant genetic trait during pregnancy, which results in an RLS diagnosis; iron deficiency: Despite normal blood levels, iron levels in the brain may be low; underlying medical condition: Some conditions can cause secondary RLS, which is when RLS coexists with another medical condition; and medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, or antinausea drugs, can cause RLS or exacerbate symptoms.

Causes

In addition to RLS, certain medical issues can occur, such as low iron levels.
Anemia.
Pregnancy.
Diabetes.

Kidney disease.

peripheral nerve damage.
substance abuse disorder.

Treatment

engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, stationary biking, or aerobics. Steer clear of strenuous or vigorous exercise right before bed.
avoiding activities that interfere with sleep, such as reading, watching TV, or using a phone or computer when in bed. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate symptoms of RLS.
putting a cold compress or heating pad on your legs and soaking them in a warm tub. These might ease your discomfort momentarily.
lowering your general level of stress. You can get assistance with this from a mental health practitioner.
avoiding caffeine-containing beverages, such as coffee, right before bed.

Summary

It can be annoying to have restless legs syndrome all the time. It makes it difficult for you to get to sleep and stay asleep. You might wish you could press the snooze button a few more times when your alarm goes off in the morning. Coffee (caffeine) may exacerbate symptoms at night if you use it as a coping mechanism in the morning.