2023-05-19 09:43:40
Can’t keep your legs still because they tingle or itch so much, especially when you’re lying in bed and want nothing more than to sleep? Maybe you suffer from restless legs. We also call this Restless Legs Syndrome. Read all about this irritating condition here.
Symptoms of restless legs
If you have Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), you will feel itching, tingling or an unpleasant sensation in your legs. There are patients who describe it as if an army of ants is walking through their legs.
Do you especially have tired legs? Here are nine possible causes.
Scratching doesn’t help. Exercise does help against the unpleasant feeling, at least temporarily. This makes you want to move your legs continuously, it is almost impossible to keep them still. The restlessness comes especially when you sit for a long time and set up in the evening or at night. Some people kick or make jerking movements in their sleep. You can also have the same unpleasant sensation in your hands, feet, arms, and torso.
What Causes Restless Legs?
Usually the cause cannot be determined. If you’re female or older, you’re more likely to get restless legs. It is more common in some families. In addition, you can deal with it during your pregnancy (just like these eleven things you may not expect when you are pregnant), through medication and when your kidneys function less well.
You can do this yourself against restless legs
Restless legs are common. Although it can’t hurt, it is of course very annoying. That tickling in your legs keeps you awake from your sleep. Smoking, drinking coffee and alcohol, exercising too little and being overweight may aggravate your complaints. These are things you can tackle yourself: stop smoking, don’t drink coffee in the evening and stick to a maximum of one glass of alcohol per day (and don’t drink alcohol every day). Try to reach or maintain a healthy weight. Move enough, but preferably not right before you go to bed.
Read also: How much coffee a day is still healthy?
Treatment Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless Legs Syndrome cannot be prevented or cured. If you experience a lot of discomfort, it is wise to consult with your doctor. They may refer you to a neurologist who specializes in restless legs. There are medications that can help, but they have side effects. Together with a specialist, you can consider what is the best option for you.
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