In his monthly column, Dr. Kent Herbert answers your questions related to health care matters. Simply submit your question to marylou@newfalconherald.com. Itís your chance to ask the doc.Question: Is there such a thing as restless leg syndrome and what do you do about it?Restless Leg Syndrome is a common medical condition that is estimated to affect approximately two to 15 percent of the population.RLS is classified as a neurological movement disorder, along with such conditions as Parkinsonís disease.The primary symptom of RLS is an often irresistible urge to move oneís legs, and is frequently associated with an unpleasant sensation.People with RLS describe a creeping, crawling or uncomfortable feeling in the legs, and the sensation is often difficult to describe.These symptoms are usually worse at rest and when the legs are still.Although the symptoms can be present during the day, they are almost always much worse at night.Insomnia is very common in people with RLS, as the movements interfere with restful sleep.The symptoms of RLS can vary from mild to severe, and can occur at any age, although it is more common as one ages.As with many neurological conditions, the cause of RLS is not known, but it does seem to run in families. Stress cannot cause RLS, but it can make the symptoms worse.There are no tests that can be used to diagnose RLS; rather, your doctor can make the diagnosis based on a good history of the symptoms and a physical exam. Most cases of RLS are considered Primary Restless Leg Syndrome, where it is not associated with any other condition.Rarely, one can have Secondary RLS, where it is caused by another disorder, such as iron-deficiency anemia, kidney disease or diabetes. Therefore, your doctor may do some tests to rule out these and other conditions. Certain medications, such as some antidepressants, can cause RLS, as can caffeine. Pregnancy is also a common cause of RLS; it is estimated that up to 19 percent of pregnant women will have symptoms during their pregnancy.There are several good treatments for Restless Leg Syndrome, and almost always the symptoms can be effectively controlled.No single medication works for everyone, and your doctor can help select an appropriate treatment based on your age, the severity and frequency of symptoms and the presence or absence of other medical conditions. Restless Leg Syndrome only needs to be treated if it causes enough symptoms to be problematic. Many people with RLS report that dietary changes help with their symptoms, but, unfortunately, no specific diets have been proven to be effective.As always, eating a well-balanced, low-fat, low-salt diet and getting regular exercise is a good idea.If you think you may have Restless Leg Syndrome, try asking yourself the following questions. If you answer yes to most of them, there is a good chance that you have RLS.Do you experience a “creeping, crawling or uncomfortable, difficult-to-describe feelingî in the legs or arms that are relieved by moving or rubbing them?Do the symptoms worsen with rest or inactivity?Do sensations interfere with sleep onset or returning to sleep?Do you experience daytime consequences from these symptoms (e.g., fatigue, sleepiness, confusion, lack of attention)?Do others report that your legs or arms jerk during sleep? (Relates to periodic limb movements of sleep.)Do you have secondary causes of RLS, such as low iron, diabetes, kidney disease or pregnancy?Do family members report similar symptoms? Have any family members been diagnosed with RLS?If you feel that you have RLS, consult your doctor.Although Restless Leg Syndrome is not a serious condition, it can cause significant distress and affect oneís quality of life.If this is the case, treatment can bring welcome relief.Kent S. Herbert, MDFalcon Family Medicine7641 McLaughlin RdFalcon, CO 80831(719) 494-2006www.FalconFamilyMedicine.comBoard-Certified Family Physician
