A sensory disorder that might cause an irresistable urge to move your body in response to odd or uncomfortable senations is called Restless Leg Syndrome. The arms, torso or more commonly the legs can experience a tickling, burning or tingling sensation. Many refer to these symptoms as an antsy feeling or feeling as though ants are crawling around inside their legs. Some have said to experience pain rather than the crawling sensations. One thing that everyone agrees on, is the fact that the feeling goes away momentarily when the affected part of the body is moved.
Depending on what symptoms the patient exhibits, RLS may be diagnosed. The characteristic feelings will be present, as well as a history of sleeplessness. Since this condition is usually worse in the evening, sleep patterns may be disrupted. Therefore, the symptoms of an RLS sufferer may include insomnia with daytime drowsiness. This sleep deprivation can also lead to a lack of concentration, mood swings and depression. A physician should be told if any of these conditions are also present, because they will help to properly diagnose RLS. A complete physical examination will be performed to rule out any underlying conditions that may mimic this syndrome.
The doctor will thoroughly evaluate the nerves in the spinal cord, legs and arms. Any damage or disease along these important pathways will be analyzed. The blood flow to the arms and legs will be examined, and if there are any blockages, treatment to improve the circulation will be discussed. An important test in the diagnosis of RLS is a blood test, which searches for iron deficiency, kidney malfunction, or deficiencies in key vitamins or minerals. All of these conditions are believed to play a role in the presence of this syndrome. The physician may also test the thyroid gland to insure that it's working efficiently. Chronic illnesses like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or Parkinson's disease may also bring about the onset of RLS and the doctor will check for them. Emotional issues like stress can bring about symptoms of restless leg syndrome as well as obesity. In these cases, lifestyle and diet changes may result in dramatic improvement.
A minutely planned treatment should begin upon the right diagnosis of RLS. Relief from symptoms of discomfiture and an improved quality of sleep should constitute the final goal. In the beginning, one may be asked by the doctor to avoid things that are commonly known to be triggering RLS, like caffeine, alcohol and antihistamines obtained over-the-counter. This condition is also caused by prescription drugs like antidepressants, although you must consult your general physician before you discintinue a drug.Certain lifestyle changes like weight loss, discontinuing smoking, if required, as well as increasing work-out regimes, especially walking, may be advised in order to fight mild RLS symptoms. Severe cases may require acupuncture or electric nerve stimulation. Long standing alleviation may result from the use fof magnesium tablets and holistic remedies.
Even though there is no particular cure for Restless Leg Syndrome, different kind of treatment options are available that can greatly reduce the symptoms. Through a peaceful night�s sleep one can achieve increased concentration and less drowsiness during daytime. Changes in the lifestyle and diet and avoiding known triggers like caffeine the uncomfortable sensations in the legs can be controlled. RLS related research going on across the world to understand the causes will surly find a solution and improve the quality of treatment.
Michelle has been studying natural health applications for a number of years. She is a regular contributor to http://myherbalremedy.com/, a site discussing some of the most promising natural treatments for RLS available today. If you're looking for an alternative to harsh medications, visit the site to learn more.
