One in twenty people suffer from itching, tingling or simply an unpleasant feeling in the lower legs in the evening and at night. This is called Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) or restless legs. How does it arise, and what can you do about it?
“It is a pulling, itching, stinging and vibrating feeling that is very irritating and gives an irresistible urge to move,” explains GP Mirella Buurman to Margaret. RLS is (probably) a disorder of the nervous system. It mainly affects women and the diagnosis is mainly made in middle age, although it is increasingly common in younger people.
The annoying feeling disappears for a moment when you move your legs. “But the annoying thing is that you have to keep moving, because if you stop, it will come back, sometimes for hours,” says Buurman. The feeling can be so strong that you cannot fall asleep or wake up, resulting in sleepless nights and severe fatigue. Sitting for a long time or exercising in the evening can also be the instigator of restless legs.
“It is still unclear exactly where it comes from, but we suspect that it is a neurological disorder that arises in the brain or spinal cord,” says the doctor. “The condition has to do with controlling the muscles. Dopamine deficiency probably plays a role in this.” The disorder is more common in people with certain diseases, such as diabetes and rheumatism. Pregnant women and people with a magnesium, iron or folic acid deficiency are also more likely to suffer from it. In addition, it is a side effect of some medications.
“If there are shortages, you can supplement them. Exercise and exercise sufficiently during the day, but do not exercise late at night. Don’t drink coffee in the evening, limit alcohol to no more than one glass a day and don’t drink every day. Do not smoke and prevent or reduce excess weight. It is not known which of these tips is the most important, but if you do all of these, most people’s complaints will decrease.”
People with RLS also suffer from Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) in eighty percent of cases. People kick or move rhythmically with their legs or arms in their sleep. This is more harmless, it won’t wake you up. “It is also not painful or irritating, it is more of a reflex that a possible partner suffers from. You can also only have PLMD, separate from restless legs. PLMD is treated in the same way as restless legs, with the same lifestyle advice,” concludes family doctor Burman.
Make an appointment with the doctor if you continue to suffer from restless legs. Do not work in supplements on your own, but first have your blood values checked by the doctor.
Bron(nen): Margaret Mauritius Images GmbH
2023-07-03 08:22:44
#Restless #Legs #Syndrome #wel.nl
