Restless Leg Syndrome is a condition where one feels an unpleasant sensation of leg movement while resting. This uncomfortable feeling is associated with a deep need to move the leg muscles and can be extremely difficult to ignore or resist. One of the leading causes of Restless Leg Syndrome is iron deficiency. Iron deficiency significantly increases the severity of restless leg syndrome. Many other potential causes have been suggested, including calcium levels, insulin resistance, and inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. If you have any symptoms related to the condition, you need to consult with a specialist in restless leg syndrome in Ardsley.
Causes
Restless leg syndrome is not classified as a disease but rather a condition. The underlying cause is unclear; however, some evidence suggests that lack of specific vitamins or deficiencies can play a role. It is associated with iron deficiency anemia and low levels of folic acid and vitamin B12. Genetic factors may also contribute.
Restless legs syndrome is more common in older people. About half of all cases are believed to be related to another underlying medical condition (such as anemia or kidney failure), which can result in inadequate restless leg syndrome treatment.
Symptoms
The “classic” symptom of restless leg syndrome is an uncomfortable sensation in the legs (and sometimes arms) that feels like they need to “move.” This feeling may be difficult to describe, but it is often described as tingling, tickling, itching, burning, or like insects crawling inside the affected limb.
The urge to move can be challenging to resist, and people with the condition often say they must move their legs, extending the leg or rubbing it to get temporary relief from the sensations. This can result in sleep disturbance and insomnia.
Syndrome Treatment
There are several restless leg syndrome treatments that you should consider if you think that your symptoms may disrupt your sleep and negatively impact your quality of life.
The first step towards effective restless leg syndrome treatment is identifying any underlying medical conditions that may be causing or exacerbating the problem. The next step is to keep you healthy by eating a balanced diet, including foods high in iron, such as red meat and leafy green vegetables. You should also consider taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement daily.
Iron supplements may be an excellent restless leg syndrome treatment if you are anemic. Speak to your doctor before taking any iron supplements as there may already be enough iron in your diet, or they may advise against them if you have other medical conditions.
Another option for restless leg syndrome treatment is magnesium supplements. A lack of magnesium can lead to an increase in restless leg syndrome symptoms, so taking magnesium supplements may help with the uncomfortable sensations you feel when your legs need to move.
In summary, iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of restless leg syndrome. If you have an iron deficiency, it can be treated with supplements to help relieve symptoms. This will also benefit your overall health and well-being.
