WHAT IS RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME?

It is an intense need to move, most often felt in the legs, sometimes in the arms and body.
in the limbs; It occurs with sensations defined as pulling, crawling, throbbing, itching, pain, burning.

Generally; especially in the evening when you are inactive; It occurs when you are lying in bed, driving a car, or when you are standing still in environments such as the theater and cinema. There is a need to walk and shake the limbs to reduce the discomfort experienced.

Who gets restless legs syndrome?

It is more common in women. It occurs at any age, including children, and its incidence increases with age.

What are the causes of restless legs syndrome?

Genetic; It has been determined that 92% of patients with restless legs syndrome also have a family history. The age of onset in the genetic form is before 45 years of age.
low iron and ferritin levels
Uremia (chronic kidney failure)
hypothyroidism
Depression
Fibromyalgia
Parkinson's disease
Diabetes
rheumatic diseases
peripheral neuropathy
Pregnancy
Dialysis
Medications (antidepressants, antipsychotics, allergy medications, anti-nausea drugs, caffeine – nicotine – alcohol use)

What are the symptoms of restless legs syndrome?

uncomfortable sensations in the limbs; burning, numbness, throbbing, itching, pulling, tugging, or gnawing. It is most pronounced at bedtime. It can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep, and related daytime sleepiness may occur. There is a decrease in daytime work performance and changes in daytime behaviors (irritability, moodiness, difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, etc.).

How is restless legs syndrome diagnosed? What tests are done?

There is no specific test for diagnosis. The diagnosis is made by evaluating the patient's complaints and examination findings. Sometimes, sleep apnea may be suspected in the patient, in which case polysomnography (sleep test) is requested.

What is the treatment for restless legs syndrome?

In the treatment, the underlying causes should be investigated first. If the cause is revealed, relaxing treatments should be started along with the treatment of this cause:

avoiding caffeinated products and alcohol
avoiding intense sports activities before bedtime
Meditative exercises such as meditation, yoga.
Practicing stretching exercises.
Applying heating, cold compresses, massaging the legs
taking a hot bath
taking magnesium supplements
Prescription medications may be given if deemed necessary by your doctor:
dopamine agonists; ropinirole, pramipexole etc
Anti-seizure and neuropathy medications; gabapentin, pregabalin