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Restless legs syndrome is a "creepy, crawly" feeling in the legs when they are still, especially at bedtime. Stretching or moving the legs temporarily relieves these feelings. The constant need to stretch or move the legs to rid of the uncomfortable sensations often prevents the person from falling asleep resulting in daytime sleepiness.
5 to 10% of people experience the pain of RLS at some point in their lives. RLS can occur at any age but is more common in the elderly. Approximately 30% of RLS cases have a hereditary case.
The Symptoms include:
- An urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in the legs
- Worsening of the discomfort when lying down or during other forms of inactivity
- Experiencing the most discomfort at night and late in the day
Treatments are:
- Home remedies such as a hot bath, ice packs, leg message and regular exercise
- Medication, including pain relievers, Benzodiazepines (such as Valium, Halcion, Restoril and Klonopin)
and L-Dopa drugs that enhance a brain chemical known as dopamine
- In certain cases Vitamin E and supplemental Calcium
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