Currently, many are interested in what is restless legs syndrome causes and treatment. We will find out who suffers most from this disease, get acquainted with the symptoms of restless limbs, find out what to do to improve the quality of sleep.
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It is important to know what are the traditional and folk methods of treating restless legs syndrome in order to get rid of the irresistible desire to move the legs incessantly.

General information about the disease

Humanity has been familiar with this disease for a long time. For the first time, information about him appeared in 1672, described by Thomas Willis, the Swede Ekbom studied it deeper in the middle of the 20th century. Therefore, restless leg syndrome (RLS) is called by their names: Willis's disease, Ekbom's disease.

The disease is characterized by extremely uncomfortable sensations in the legs. They appear in the evening before going to bed, disappear in the morning and do not bother in the morning. Restless Leg Syndrome is one of the causes of insomnia.

Restless limb syndrome can also occur during daytime sleep, when you just lay down to rest. Man experiences suffering without pain This is a hallmark of the RLS.
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This disease is detected in 10% of the world's population. It is more often found in older people (35-70 years). The female population suffers from RLS more often. Can also be diagnosed children. Often this is associated with the child's hyperactivity and lack of attention. This is just a hypothesis, nothing has been confirmed.

Restless legs syndrome causes and treatment: classification of the disease

According to the genesis, restless leg syndrome causes and treatment are divided into 2 groups:

1. idiopathic syndrome (primary)
2. symptomatic syndrome (secondary)

primary syndrome – little studied, young people under 30 get sick. Not associated with major diseases, it accounts for up to 50%. It accompanies a person all his life, alternating periods of progression and remission. It occurs suddenly, the reasons are not clarified, it can be:

• heredity in 20-70% of cases
• disturbances in the work of the central nervous system
• psychological circumstances (stress, depression, fatigue)

secondary syndrome- manifests itself against the background of the main (neurological or somatic) disease, disappears after their elimination. Frequently occurring:

• anemia due to iron deficiency
• diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease
• abuse of alcohol, tobacco, caffeine
• disruption in the blood supply
• kidney disease, arthritis
• beriberi (group B) and magnesium deficiency
• treatment with certain drugs

The secondary syndrome occurs after 40 years or later. The exception is pregnancy. More than 16% of pregnant women suffer from this disease, 3 times more than non-pregnant women. There is a possibility of genetic transmission of RLS from mother to fetus, which poses a threat to the bearing of the baby.

If you ever Waking up with cramps in your arms or legs then you have experienced symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome. The disorder is mainly characterized by sudden or unpredictable spasms or jerks of the limbs of the body. Although it primarily occurs in the legs, as the name suggests, the syndrome can also affect the trunk, head, and arms.

Restless legs syndrome is considered to be a serious problem, as the range of severity of its symptoms can be quite dramatic, ranging from mild annoyance to constant disruption of sleep and severe impact on quality of life. Limb twitching is actually a secondary symptom, as most people who suffer from this syndrome complain of itching, muscle pain, electrical impulses, or even the feeling that something is crawling over the body.
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Seizures most often occur at rest, which often precedes sleep, or when the body is relaxed and motionless. There are many causes for this syndrome, but the most common explanation is iron deficiency. So, if you have an iron deficiency or an excess of it, your chances of getting this syndrome are many times higher.

Restless legs syndrome can be accompanied by other health problems such as sleep apnea, thyroid disease, Parkinson's disease, and magnesium deficiency.

There are some symptoms that will help determine the presence of restless legs syndrome on your own. Forums are full of recommendations and reviews on how to diagnose your Willis disease. The presence of these symptoms does not cancel a trip to the doctor:

• convulsions, impaired sensitivity, unbearable itching, goosebumps
• most often, discomfort occurs in both legs, mainly the lower leg suffers
• there is an unbearable need to move the legs, there may be involuntary movements
• symptoms increase in the evening, become simply unbearable at night, weaken by morning
• cyclic movements of the lower extremities during sleep
• symptoms increase with age, insomnia

Very often a person cannot find the right word to describe the symptoms. In the summer, these symptoms are exacerbated. There is a hypothesis that this is due to heavy sweating. Another oddity is that the more physical activity, the less noticeable the symptoms.

Diagnostic criteria for Willis disease

Diagnostic criteria have been developed for staging DS syndrome of restless lower extremities, which are based on objective complaints of patients:

1. irresistible urge to move limbs
2. painful sensations occur at rest with a gradual increase
3. decrease or disappear during active movement
4. unpleasant effects are aggravated in the evening and at night and during sleep

These signs are universal, and with an affirmative answer, a positive diagnosis can be made. In addition, a laboratory examination is carried out to identify the underlying disease.

Comprehensive therapy for restless legs syndrome

A certain algorithm for the treatment of restless legs syndrome has been developed, which includes a number of procedures. This includes:

• drug therapy
• physiotherapy and exercise therapy
• help of a psychotherapist
• folk remedies and homeopathy
• self-help, bedtime ceremony

After the diagnosis is made, you can proceed to the complex treatment of Ekbom's disease. Drug therapy depends on whether it is a primary or secondary syndrome.

Treatment of the primary syndrome

With primary RLS, symptomatic treatment prevails, as a result of which it turns out to significantly alleviate the condition. It includes non-pharmacological and drug therapy. At this stage, it is important to stop and not prescribe drugs that increase the manifestations of RLS.

It is necessary to eliminate the lack of iron in the body (namely, in the brain), normalize blood glucose, replenish the deficiency of vitamins and magnesium, and use it for this purpose.
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Of great importance is the appointment of dopaminergic drugs (Nakom, Bromocriptine, Mirapeks).
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Mirapeks take ½ tablet at night, often relief is observed within an hour. Prescribe drugs that affect sleep (Clonazepam, Alprazolam) and anticolvunants (Carbamazepine, Gabapentin).

The inconvenience of treatment is that it can last for years. You may become addicted to the drug and you will have to replace it. You should strive to use drugs in very small dosages.

Non-drug therapy includes the rejection of addictions (alcohol, tobacco, caffeine), evening walks in the fresh air, adequate inactive physical activity, physiotherapy (magneter, mud). Acupuncture, massage, electrical stimulation, cryotherapy give a good therapeutic effect.

With a moderate load during the day on the legs, squats, stretching the calf muscles. Gentle running, cycling and hiking, tiptoe walking. Leg extension exercises.
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Treatment of the secondary syndrome

Secondary RLS requires treatment of the underlying disease. And only after curing the underlying disease, which provokes restlessness of the limbs, it is possible to begin therapy for the syndrome.
In the future, therapy is the same as in the primary syndrome.

Restless limb syndrome can be successfully treated with the right therapy.

Therapy with folk remedies, homeopathy

Consider what traditional healers advise for a similar disease and homeopaths. After all, if you can do without synthetic agents and once again not strain the liver, then why not try them first.

ethnoscience

Traditional medicine also did not stand aside from the treatment of restless legs syndrome and offered its own ways to relieve painful effects. Here are some of them:

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All these simple measures will help reduce or completely get rid of unpleasant symptoms, it will be possible to return to normal living conditions.

What to take from homeopathy

Since complex individual selection of a professional homeopath is important with mono-preparations (such training is available in England), it is better to use ready-made complexes developed by professionals that can be found in homeopathic pharmacies or the iHerb online store.

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://prozdorovechko.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/homeopathy1.jpg" alt="(!LANG:Hyland"s, Restful Legs " width="300" height="301" srcset="" data-srcset="https://i0.wp..jpg?w=500&ssl=1 500w, https://i0.wp..jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp..jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1 300w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" data-recalc-dims="1">!}

For those who live in big cities where there are homeopathic pharmacies, here is a list of ready-made homeopathic complexes for restless legs syndrome:
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Now you have the opportunity to choose where to start treating your restless legs. Be sure to consult your doctor when choosing a treatment so that it is most effective.

How to help yourself at home - 9 tips

In the evening, before going to bed, spend distracting activities: take a walk in the air, drink herbal tea with valerian, take a warm shower.

It is necessary to develop a ceremony of going to bed, to make contrasting baths with hot and cold water. Finish them with hot water, then rub well with a towel and cover with a warm blanket. Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees.

Elena Malysheva gives the same advice in her program:

This is also true for pregnant women, as blood circulation improves and discomfort disappears.

If, nevertheless, an attack could not be avoided, you can sit on the bed and rub your legs well or massage them. It is not recommended to get up, otherwise the dream will disappear completely.

While many doctors recommend a variety of drugs, ranging from antiemetics and antidepressants to anticonvulsants, there are also many natural ways to eliminate the symptoms of this syndrome yourself at home. We will talk about this further.

1. Sex

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://prozdorovechko.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/1.jpg" alt="(!LANG:How to help yourself at home - 9 tips" width="300" height="209" data-recalc-dims="1">!} One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to cure the syndrome is to have regular sex.

The strong release of endorphins and the subsequent period of relaxation that follows intercourse are associated with lower RLS symptoms.

Therefore, do not deny yourself this pleasure.

Jpg" alt="(!LANG:Caffeine reduction" width="300" height="234" data-recalc-dims="1">!} As everyone knows, caffeine is known as an energy booster (especially in the morning), but it is also a powerful stimulant. If you consume high levels of caffeine, your body may remain overly energized throughout the day and also at night.

Stimulants affect the nervous system, which is the main system associated with Restless Leg Syndrome. If you suffer from the syndrome, one of the first ways to stop the symptoms is to avoid coffee in the afternoon.

Jpg" alt="(!LANG:Massage" width="300" height="142" data-recalc-dims="1">!} Relaxing massage is an excellent way to alleviate or eliminate the symptoms of this syndrome. Not only does this help release toxins and ease muscle pain, it can also help you calm down and relax.

Chronic stress and muscle tension can lead to RLS, and one of the best ways to beat stress is to feel great, and for this, it is worth getting a massage at least a couple of times a month.

4. Tea

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://prozdorovechko.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/45647690.jpg" alt="(!LANG:Green tea" width="300" height="170" data-recalc-dims="1">!} Teas from all varieties contain soothing and beneficial compounds, including catechins, vitamins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and other anti-inflammatory compounds.
Tea helps calm our mind and body and is highly recommended for people suffering from RLS. Green and chamomile teas work best, and are great coffee substitutes as they also have caffeine, but in smaller amounts.

5. Valerian

Data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://prozdorovechko.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/valeriana_korni.jpg" alt="(!LANG:Valerian root" width="300" height="247" data-recalc-dims="1">!} Valerian root is a very popular remedy and is widely known for its ability to relax muscles and improve sleep.

Essentially, valerian can "kill two birds with one stone" - it not only soothes the muscles, eliminating spasms and tremors, but also makes sleep deep enough.

As a result, the body is in a state of complete rest, and the symptoms recede.

Jpg" alt="(!LANG:Regular walks" width="300" height="200" data-recalc-dims="1">!} Normal blood flow is essential for overall health, but is also a key factor in the treatment of RLS.

With normal blood circulation, our metabolism also works at a normal level, as a result, almost all body processes improve, including iron absorption in the intestines and the functioning of the nervous system, which prevents tremors and cramps at night.
As you know, regular walks are very good for our blood circulation.

0.jpg" alt="(!LANG:Regular stretch" width="300" height="201" data-recalc-dims="1">!} Stretching is the key to muscle health, and not only does it prevent injury, it also reduces the occurrence of RLS.

This is especially helpful when stretching before and after exercise, and before bed.

This will help get rid of the symptoms of Willis disease and make you sleep sound.

Jpg" alt="(!LANG:Wear socks" width="300" height="189" data-recalc-dims="1">!} Although it is not clear to science, there is unconfirmed information from people who suffer from this syndrome.
They claim that wearing socks helps reduce symptoms.

This may be due to the many nerve endings in the feet that are more easily stimulated when walking barefoot.

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Your diet can have a significant impact on your nervous system, as well as on any organ and body system. Depending on why you have the syndrome (iron deficiency, magnesium deficiency, diabetes mellitus, and so on), it is worth changing your diet accordingly.

Increasing your iron intake is easy—just add red meat, beans, spinach, and grains to your diet. Go to the doctor first and consult with him, and then you can already make the necessary adjustments to the diet.

Bottom line: 9 tips on how to get rid of tired legs syndrome at home are very simple and anyone can follow.

Prevention of restless leg syndrome

Prevention measures are simple and easy for anyone to perform. Do not forget to do morning exercises, walking, alternating work and rest. Intellectual loads are welcome. Eliminate stress.

Talk to your doctor and, if possible, stop the following drugs that provoke restless legs syndrome, especially if you have a predisposition to it:
data-lazy-type="image" data-src="https://prozdorovechko.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/drugs-cause-disease.png" alt="(!LANG:Drugs that cause restless leg syndrome" width="608" height="369" srcset="" data-srcset="https://i1.wp..png?w=608&ssl=1 608w, https://i1.wp..png?resize=300%2C182&ssl=1 300w" sizes="(max-width: 608px) 100vw, 608px" data-recalc-dims="1">!}

Treat symptoms of tired leg disease promptly. Do not let the disease take its course, do not self-medicate, despite the apparent simplicity of the disease.

Bottom line - we learned from the article:

• what is restless legs syndrome causes and treatment
• Who is most likely to suffer from this disease?
• figured out the symptoms
• we know what to do with the syndrome to improve the quality of sleep
• what are the traditional and folk methods of treating the problem

Healthy and calm legs to you! Great sleep!

Restless legs syndrome (RLS or by the name of the scientist who discovered the pathology, Ekbom's disease) is a patient's condition in which there is a feeling of restlessness in the legs, expressed in various sensations (burning, tingling, convulsive activity), which leads to forced movements. As a rule, the syndrome manifests itself at night, which creates some discomfort for patients. Associated symptoms: insomnia and depression.

Restless legs syndrome refers to diseases of the nervous system. Many experts note the hereditary nature of the pathology.

These include low iron levels, kidney failure, Parkinson's disease, diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, and pregnancy. A number of medications can also cause the disorder, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, and calcium channel blockers.

According to the age criterion, people aged 30-50 get sick more often. Among them, 60% of women who sought medical help are from 30 to 45. The paradoxical fact is that after a hard working day, when the legs are tired and must rest, the body sends impulses to move contrary to the general condition.

There are cases of the development of restless legs syndrome in children, although reliable statistics do not exist. The baby does not fall asleep well, moves in a dream. Usually this condition is associated with behavioral problems. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to detect the disease at an early age.

Etiology

Depending on the external factors in the development of restless legs syndrome, there are:

The primary form does not have any specific cause, but carries a hereditary developmental factor. If you collect an anamnesis of the life of the patient and his relatives, you can find signs of the disease in several family members. Statistically, it is rare. The mechanism of transmission of pathology is dominant.

Secondary form - has external provoking factors that lead to metabolic disorders in the body. As a rule, damage to the peripheral nervous system occurs with development.

There are a number of main causes of restless legs syndrome:

• Traumatic injury to the central nervous system, including the back of the brain;
• Diseases of the kidneys and adrenal glands;
• Pathology of the thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism);
• Sometimes the development of the syndrome provokes pregnancy;
• Anemia of various origins;
• Metabolic disorders (insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus);
• Alcohol intoxication;
• Hypo- and avitominosis (vitamins of group B, lack of magnesium and potassium in the body);
• Signs are observed after taking certain drugs (especially if the dose is exceeded).

Restless legs syndrome is based on pathogenetic mechanisms of dopamine metabolism in the body, which is produced in the central nervous system and adrenal glands, by its nature, the substance is a precursor of adrenaline. Its role in the body is to participate in the transmission of nerve impulses in neurons. Reduced levels of dopamine in the blood leads to impaired motor activity and the development of restless legs syndrome. Deficiency of free iron in the blood serum exacerbates the violation of the dopaminergic system.

Initially, having determined the main mechanism for the development of the disease, a number of medications can be distinguished, the intake of which it can provoke:

• Antipsychotic drugs (or antipsychotics) - reduce the transmission of nerve impulses in the dopaminergic system;
• Psychostimulants (eg caffeine);
• Some antiemetic drugs - suppress certain foci of activity in the brain;
• Antihistamines;
• psychotropic drugs containing lithium;
• Hypotensive (based on β-blockers);
• Some anticonvulsants.

Symptoms

Restless legs syndrome is a manifestation of an unpleasant feeling in the limbs, in which it is possible to get rid of attacks only by movements. Since relapses occur mainly at night, movements can occur involuntarily without waking up.

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Restless legs syndrome is a neurotic disorder that can cause many serious problems.. This is a sleep disorder, exhaustion of the nervous system, swelling, varicose veins, deterioration and disorder of attention and memory, decreased performance.

It is undesirable to treat restless leg syndrome at home and exclusively with home remedies without going to the doctors. There may be a very obvious and powerful physiological reason behind the strange restless syndrome.

Restless legs syndrome often manifests itself during pregnancy, with problems with pressure, with diabetes, and with diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Patients experience acute and sharp discomfort in the limbs, forcing them to constantly change the position of the legs. Symptoms usually worsen in the evening and do not allow you to sleep peacefully.

It is even possible to wake up from severe itching, convulsions, the sensation of invisible sharp needles digging into the muscles, bites of non-existent insects.

What is Restless Leg Syndrome? The name of the disease is frivolous, common people and not too similar to a medical term. But yes, this is indeed the name of a disorder in which patients constantly feel the need to move their lower limbs.

If the legs are not moved, they feel tingling, numbness, itching, cramps, goosebumps, or the realistic sensation of crawling insects. In severe stages, the legs can move involuntarily, from severe cramps, intolerable itching, a feeling of swelling, pain.

Patients complain of invisible needles that dig into the muscles and cause their involuntary contraction, heaviness in the legs, numbness, causeless fatigue. The only short-term relief from this condition is moving the legs to another position.

As a result of RLS, sleep is disturbed and the nervous system is loosened.. Scratches and blisters may appear on the body, as from real insect bites. Scratching in itself becomes an additional source of anxiety, irritation and itching.

How to get rid of restless legs syndrome can only be decided by a doctor after diagnosing and finding out the causes of the development of symptoms.

The causes of painful and unpleasant symptoms can be different. Diagnosis can be difficult due to incorrect behavior of the nervous system and incorrect signals.

With a long course of the disease, the patient's perception changes, he is unable to give accurate answers to the doctor's questions, the reaction of the nervous system is distorted.

In general, RLS is a symptom characteristic of the general exhaustion of the nervous system during anemia, stress, sleep disturbances, malfunctions of the immune system and the hormonal system.

The main causes of RLS are:

1. Nervous as a result of damage to nerve fibers.
2. Psychological. Stress, insomnia, overexertion.
3. Hormonal, metabolic disorders, diabetes
4. Allergies.

restless leg syndrome

Under the general name of restless legs syndrome, alcoholic and senile neuropathy can be hidden with serious damage to the peripheral nervous system and the nerve fibers themselves.

Peripheral neuropathy, the first manifestation of which may be RLS, can be caused by disease of the nervous system, a problem with synapses, and destruction of the fibers of the nervous system. With neuropathy, the long nerve fibers located in the legs are the first to suffer..

With a lesion, false signals are transmitted from the peripheral system to the central nervous system. Patients suffer from false pain, heaviness in the legs, numbness of the limbs, with time a characteristic sluggish gait appears and other disorders of the nervous system appear.

How to help with a serious nervous disease can only be decided by a doctor. With home remedies, you can pick up light soothing herbal medicines - valerian, motherwort, ointments to relieve itching. If alcohol dependence requires additional treatment by a neuropathologist.

Parkinson's disease

RLS in the elderly may be the initial manifestation of Parkinson's disease and a symptom of CNS damage.

To prevent the development of Parkinson's in the initial stages, Mirapex is recommended as a stimulant for the production of dopamine. But the decision to treat should not be made on your own.

The cause of RLS at a young age is most often anemia and iron deficiency, metabolic disorders. Muscle cramps with anemia can be very strong, pain and discomfort in the legs can be significant.

Anemia is most often manifested during pregnancy or severe bleeding, hemorrhoids, bleeding ulcers, purulent inflammation, with general exhaustion of the body and severe stress.

What to do and how to remove the symptoms of RLS with anemia, the doctor will better tell. Homeopathy and mild sedatives will help relieve nervous strain.

Leg cramps during pregnancy are dangerous and can cause nervous cramps in the uterus, provoke a difficult pregnancy, and even threaten the life of the fetus.

It is better not to select antispasmodic drugs on your own. Gymnastics, yoga, restoring a normal sleep pattern, fresh air and a diet rich in iron-containing foods - liver, apples, pomegranates, cereal cereals, fortified baby food will be useful and help overcome unpleasant symptoms, do not let them develop.

Treatment of restless legs syndrome with traditional medicine recipes in case of pregnancy must be agreed with the doctor.

RLS in a child most often indicates problems with blood vessels and the heart, severe stress.

Diabetes

Severe itching in the legs and RLS with cramps are a sign of some forms of diabetes. In some cases, the legs are combed to live meat for no apparent reason.

With diabetes, the legs are covered with unbearable itching, cramps. From scratching, sores appear, similar to traces of insect bites.

With the development of the disease, the symptom can cover the whole body. Do not postpone the visit to the doctor and take blood tests for sugar.

In some cases, the syndrome is caused by an allergy to microscopic bed mites that feed on skin flakes.

If you suspect ticks, change your bedding to a freshly laundered and freshly ironed one. Replace pillows and brush your combs with a soothing agent, such as zinc ointment.

In the presence of ticks in bed, not only the legs itch and cramp, but also the sides or arms that come into contact with the infected bed. Cleanliness, hot-ironed bed linen and airing are the best enemy of ticks.

Strong and acute allergens can be mold spores, mouse and rat droppings, household chemicals.

A common allergy, for example, to citrus fruits, with a disturbed sleep pattern and nervous tension, may also well cause temporary RLS with acute sharp itching, pain and cramps in the muscles and involuntary painful twitches.

Prevention of restless legs syndrome in the initial stages

For prevention and at the first symptoms of restless legs, irritating and invigorating foods in the diet should be immediately abandoned. This is especially true for alcohol.

You need to focus on the most healthy, relaxed lifestyle without shocks and heavy training. Need to fix the day.

Leg stretching, moderate jogging, swimming, gentle forms of yoga, walking, Nordic walking in the open air should all calm the nervous system and prevent the development of symptoms if the problem is not systemic and if restless leg syndrome is not a symptom. another disease - diabetes, varicose veins, nervous breakdown.

Salt baths with sea salt relieve skin irritations and soothe scratching. Pouring the legs below the knee with cool water helps to strengthen the immune system, improves the condition of the veins and the nervous system.

If the cause is deeper, professional medical diagnosis is necessary. Check your blood for sugar, blood pressure, undergo an examination of the cardiovascular and nervous system and follow the doctor's instructions.

It is impossible to ignore the symptoms, attributing restless legs to slightly loosened nerves. Without treatment, the disease progresses and becomes the cause of quite serious nervous and vascular diseases.

Constant discomfort exhausts, loosens the nervous system as a whole, convulsions, numbness, involuntary twitches and a sudden sensation of severe itching can appear not only in the legs, but in any part of the body.

Sleep disturbance, insomnia disables the cardiovascular system, vascular spasms are possible as a result of constant stress, problems with the veins, quite serious nervous and mental disorders.

With alcohol dependence, the destruction of the peripheral nervous system increases, then there is a gradual destruction of the central nervous system.

Symptom complex, which today is called restless legs syndrome, was first described in the 17th century (1672) by the British physician Thomas Willis. Thomas Willis entered the history of medical science as the author of a detailed description of the anatomical structure of some arteries of the brain, which in his honor are still called the "Circle of Willis".

Subsequently, the Finnish doctor and scientist Karl Alex Ekbom again drew attention to this symptom complex in 1943. Ekbom, from the standpoint of modern medical science, developed criteria for diagnosing a disease, and shifted the focus from the motor component to the sensory (sensitive). Sensory disorders are the main symptom of the disease and, at the same time, the main complaint presented by patients. Ekbom grouped all observed forms of the disorder under the general term "restless legs", and subsequently added the term syndrome. In relation to this pathology - restless legs syndrome - the term syndrome is used to refer to a stable symptom complex, but is not a reflection of a specific and uniform pathogenesis of the disease. In modern medical practice, two terms are used - restless leg syndrome and Ekbom syndrome.

Definition of Restless Leg Syndrome

Today, restless legs syndrome is understood as a sensorimotor disorder, which is manifested by painful, unpleasant sensations in the legs that develop only at rest, which makes a person move in order to eliminate or alleviate these sensations. Unpleasant sensations in the limbs most often disturb the patient in the evening and at night, leading to insomnia by the type of difficulty falling asleep or frequent awakenings.

Classification of restless leg syndrome
depending on origin

It is accepted that all cases of restless legs syndrome (RLS) are divided into two large groups depending on the origin:
1. Primary, or idiopathic.
2. Symptomatic, or secondary.

Characteristics of Primary Restless Leg Syndrome

Primary restless leg syndrome first manifests before the age of 35, that is, at a young age. Approximately half of all cases of primary restless legs syndrome are not associated with any disease. According to modern research, this pathology is hereditary, and is inherited according to the dominant type, and the degree of manifestation of the disease depends on the activity of the gene. Scientists believe that primary restless leg syndrome may be based on the activity of one or more genes, that is, be monogenic and polygenic. The genes responsible for the manifestation of this syndrome, which are located on chromosomes 12, 14 and 9, have been identified. However, it turned out to be impossible to reduce all the signs of pathology to the action of only genetic factors, therefore today restless leg syndrome is classified as a multifactorial pathology, the development of which is due to a complex interaction of genetic factors and environmental factors.

Secondary Restless Leg Syndrome
common causes

Secondary restless legs syndrome develops in people of middle and older age, manifesting for the first time after 45 years. Secondary, or symptomatic restless legs syndrome, develops against the background of the underlying disease, which provokes this sensorimotor disorder.
Most often, secondary restless legs syndrome develops against the background of the following pathological and physiological conditions:

• iron deficiency in the body.

Pregnant women are at risk of developing secondary restless legs syndrome during the second and third trimesters, and its presence is recorded in approximately 20% of women in the position. Usually, within a month after giving birth, restless legs syndrome goes away on its own, but in rare cases it can persist and bother you for the rest of your life.

Uremia (increased concentration of urea in the blood) mainly develops in patients with renal pathology. Therefore, 15 to 80% of patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis also suffer from secondary restless leg syndrome.

Pathologies associated with the development of restless leg syndrome

In addition to the above conditions, secondary restless legs syndrome can develop against the background of the following pathological processes in the body:

• cryoglobulinemia;
• deficiency of vitamins B 12, B 9 (folic acid), B 6 (thiamine);
• magnesium deficiency;
• thyroid pathology;
• rheumatoid arthritis ;
• Sjögren's syndrome;
• obliterating endoarteritis;
• venous insufficiency of the lower extremities;
• diseases of the spinal cord (trauma, myelopathy, tumors, myelitis, multiple sclerosis);
• chorea of ​​Hettington;
• amyotrophic lateral sclerosis;
• post-poliomyelitis syndrome;

Some patients with restless legs syndrome have a hereditary predisposition to the development of this pathology, which manifests itself in the form of a disease due to exposure to adverse environmental factors, such as excessive coffee consumption, iron deficiency, or polyneuropathy. Therefore, in this situation, the difference between primary and secondary restless leg syndrome is rather arbitrary.

Obesity increases the risk of developing this symptom complex by almost 50%. The risk group primarily includes young people under the age of 20 who are obese.

Restless legs syndrome in neurological patients (chorea, parkinsonism, etc.) may be due to the coincidence of two pathologies, the effects of medication, or the presence of common links in the development of diseases.

Data from a general and special neurological examination usually do not reveal any disease in people with primary restless leg syndrome, and in people with a secondary one, somatic or neurological pathologies are almost always detected, most often polyneuropathy.

Restless legs syndrome pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of restless legs syndrome is associated with a violation of the metabolism of dopamine in the brain, as well as with the pathology of the hypothalamus, red nuclei and the reticular formation.

Primary Restless Leg Syndrome

If a person suffers from primary restless leg syndrome, then the symptoms of this disease are present throughout life, differing in the degree of intensity. Strengthening of symptoms occurs with stress, strong physical exertion, during pregnancy, as well as the use of various products containing caffeine. The course of primary restless legs syndrome is characterized by a slow progression of symptoms throughout life, which alternates with periods of latency (no increase) or persistent remission (no signs of disease). Moreover, remission can last for a different period of time, both short - a few days, and long - several years. About 15% of patients with primary restless legs syndrome have long periods of disease remission. Scientists believe that the manifestations of primary restless leg syndrome worsen slowly and are relatively mild.

Secondary Restless Leg Syndrome

Secondary restless leg syndrome is characterized by various variants of the course, since it is determined by the characteristics of the underlying disease. However, most patients report a persistent tendency for symptoms to worsen as the disease progresses. The periods of remission in patients with secondary restless legs syndrome are practically not detected. Progression occurs very quickly, but only up to a certain level of intensity of unpleasant sensations. After the maximum intensity of unpleasant sensations is reached, the plateau phase begins, which is characterized by a stable, non-progressive course of the disease.

Prevalence of Restless Leg Syndrome

According to epidemiological studies, the prevalence of restless legs syndrome in the population of Western countries is 5-10%. In this case, people of any age are susceptible to the disease, but most often the pathology occurs in middle-aged and elderly people. Women are affected 2.5 times more often than men. It is noteworthy that residents of Asian countries practically do not suffer from restless legs syndrome, where the incidence of this pathology is only 0.1-0.7%. A number of scientists believe that 15-20% of sleep disorders are caused by this particular pathology.

As can be seen from the above data, restless legs syndrome is quite common, but it is practically not diagnosed. This state of affairs is due to the fact that most practitioners do not know enough about this syndrome, and its individual symptoms are explained by neurological or psychological disorders, vascular diseases or other pathologies. Therefore, in relation to the problems of diagnosing this disease, the magnificent statement of A.M. Wayne "To establish the diagnosis of any disease, it is necessary, at least, to know about its existence."

Restless Leg Syndrome Diagnosis

However, the diagnosis of restless legs syndrome does not present serious difficulties, and is based on specially developed criteria, which are based on the patient's complaints.

R. Allen and colleagues in 2003 developed four universal criteria for diagnosing restless leg syndrome. It is noteworthy that these criteria are essential, that is, necessary and sufficient for making a diagnosis.

So, here are the four diagnostic criteria:
1. An irresistible desire to move the legs or other parts of the body, which is caused by the presence of unpleasant sensations in the lower limbs.
2. Unpleasant sensations intensify or begin to manifest at rest.
3. With physical activity, discomfort decreases or disappears.
4. Unpleasant sensations intensify in the evening and at night.

These diagnostic criteria are simple and universal. If a person answers yes to all four questions, then most likely he suffers from restless legs syndrome. These questions can be addressed to the patient in a form convenient for him - orally or in writing.

Characterization of diagnostic criteria for restless leg syndrome

The first and second diagnostic criteria reflect the sensorimotor manifestations of the pathological state of the body and the use of motor activity in order to stop this sharp, irresistible impulse. And the third and fourth criteria are a reflection of the signs on which the degree of severity of discomfort in the limbs depends. Let's take a closer look at what each diagnostic criterion implies.

Irresistible desire to move the legs, which occurs in response to extremely unpleasant sensations in the lower extremities
The main characterological sign of restless legs syndrome is an unpleasant sensation in the legs, which is very difficult to fit into any framework. This feeling is difficult to explain to a doctor or just another person. The main descriptive sign of an unpleasant sensation is the desire to make certain movements. Instinctively, some people resist this urge by trying to change position, but in general, patients find that it is better and easier to move their legs to get rid of the unpleasant stress-like feeling. Pathological sensation develops in any part of the lower limb, but most often covers the shins and feet. In cases of severe disease, the hands, neck or torso may be involved in the pathological process. When there is such a strong severity of symptoms, a person cannot fall asleep in any way, taking a variety of postures, but without success. It should be taken into account the fact that the patient considers the cause of the sleep disorder to be an uncomfortable posture, and not constant motor acts.

The desire to move the limbs is often associated with other neurogenic symptoms, such as:

• "crawling" - the impression of something crawling under the skin or in the vessels;
• local temperature - a feeling of hot, rolling of burning waves;
• tingling, tingling, rubbing, punching - a feeling of bubbles under the skin or in the vessels, current discharges in the legs, itching, etc.

It is noteworthy that all the above unpleasant sensations are felt in the depths of the legs, under the skin, which is described by a person as something in the vessels, bones, etc. A number of patients completely deny the presence of any unpleasant sensations, focusing precisely on the desire to constantly move their legs.

Increase or appearance of discomfort at rest
This means that the intensity of discomfort is directly proportional to the amount of time spent at rest. Thus, the longer a person does not move, the more unpleasant sensations appear in him, and the more irresistible the desire to move. Volitional suppression of this sensation, and the continuation of being at rest, as a rule, leads to an even greater progression of the symptom, and even to the appearance of pain. If you start moving, then on the contrary, the symptoms are greatly relieved or disappear altogether.

A long sitting position in such people leads to an irresistible desire to walk around, stretch their legs. Therefore, in the behavior of patients with restless leg syndrome, avoidance of prolonged sitting is often found - they instinctively stand in public transport when there are empty seats, try not to go to theaters, cinemas, not drive a car or fly an airplane. If a person with this pathology drives for a long time, then he is forced to periodically stop, get out of the car and make movements (walk, jump, etc.) in order to eliminate discomfort.

Reduction or disappearance of painful symptoms during movement
The symptom has a pronounced temporal aspect. That is, unpleasant sensations recede immediately after the start of movement. Jumping, walking, shifting from foot to foot, stretching a limb - any motor action reduces the intensity of unpleasant sensations. The improvement effect continues as long as the person is moving. However, there is no continuation of the normal state after the end of the movements. That is, this symptom can be described by the following formula: there is movement - there are no unpleasant sensations, stop movements - the return of unpleasant sensations. Therefore, this symptom is very specific, and helps to distinguish restless legs syndrome from other pathologies associated with the presence of discomfort in the lower extremities.

Increased discomfort at night or in the evening

People with restless leg syndrome have a distinct circadian rhythm of symptom intensity. That is, the maximum severity of discomfort occurs in the evening and at night with a peak between 00.00 and 04.00 hours, and relief is observed in the morning - from 06.00 to 10.00. A similar circadian rhythm corresponds to the daily fluctuations in human body temperature. This means that the highest daily body temperature corresponds to the period of relief of symptoms, and the lowest - on the contrary, the maximum severity of discomfort. If the pathology is running, then the person constantly feels symptoms of the same intensity, not related to the time of day. However, the main time when people are especially tormented is the time of falling asleep, since two factors are combined here - evening and a relaxed state of rest. 15-30 minutes after a person goes to bed, discomfort in the legs begins to bother him.

Periodic leg movements during sleep

It is noteworthy that after falling asleep, people with restless leg syndrome suffer periodic leg movements during sleep (PDMS) . These movements are noted in 70 - 92% of patients, and are in the nature of flexion-extensor. In this case, an involuntary contraction of muscle groups occurs for a very short period of time - 0.5-3 seconds, and the interval between PDNS is 5 - 90 seconds.

Severity of Restless Leg Syndrome

The severity of restless legs syndrome correlates with the frequency of PDNS, which are recorded using a special polysomnographic study.
Depending on the detected frequency of periodic leg movements during sleep, three degrees of severity of the disease are distinguished:
1. Mild severity - the frequency of PDNS 5 - 20 per hour.
2. Moderate severity - the frequency of PDNS 20 - 60 per hour.
3. Severe - the frequency of PDNS is more than 60 per hour.

Sleep disturbances in people with restless leg syndrome

People with restless legs syndrome have a reduced quality of life. This fact is explained by the fact that such patients suffer from insomnia. Prolonged lying in bed, changing positions, moving the legs - all this does not allow a person to fall asleep. Different depth of sleep disturbances is an integrative (cumulative) indicator of the severity of this syndrome. That is, the more severe the form of restless legs syndrome, the more pronounced various sleep disorders.

PDNS are the cause of changes in the structure of sleep, imbalance of its phases and constant awakenings. After waking up, a person, as a rule, can no longer fall asleep. To improve their well-being and reduce the intensity of symptoms, patients begin to walk around the apartment. Such forced night "walks" are called night walker symptom . By 4.00 in the morning, the severity of discomfort decreases, and the person falls asleep for a short period of time. Naturally, after such an inadequate night's rest, people wake up with difficulty, and all day they feel tired, inattentive, forgetful, etc.

Differences between restless legs syndrome and other diseases
with similar symptoms

Restless legs syndrome must be distinguished from other diseases whose symptoms are similar. Distinctive features of various diseases are presented in the table.

Disease	Symptoms similar to those in the syndrome restless legs	Signs uncharacteristic of the syndrome restless legs
Peripheral neuropathy	Unpleasant sensations in the legs, "goosebumps"	They do not have a clear daily rhythm, there are no PDNS, reducing the intensity of unpleasant symptoms does not depend on physical activity
Akathisia	Anxiety, desire move, discomfort at rest	They do not have a clear daily rhythm, there are no unpleasant sensations in the legs (burning, crawling, etc.), relatives do not suffer from the syndrome restless legs
Vascular pathology	Paresthesia ("goosebumps")	Increased discomfort in the legs when moving, the presence of a pronounced vascular pattern on the skin of the legs
Night cramps (crumpy)	Develop at rest stopped by movements legs (stretch) have a clear daily rhythm	Begin suddenly, do not increase at rest there is no irresistible desire to move, any voluntary movement does not stop seizures, occur in one limb

Treatment Principles for Secondary Restless Leg Syndrome

Treatment of restless legs syndrome should be carried out depending on whether the pathology is primary or secondary.

If we are talking about secondary restless legs syndrome, then the underlying disease should be identified and adequate therapy should be started for the latter. It is recommended, first of all, to investigate the concentrations of vitamins and microelements - iron, folic acid and magnesium, and in case of a deficiency, to correct the deficiency state. Restless legs syndrome is often associated with iron deficiency . In this case, treatment with iron preparations in the form of tablets or intravenous and intramuscular injections is carried out under the control of the level of ferritin in the blood serum. Treatment with iron preparations should be continued until a ferritin concentration of 50 μg / l is reached.

The use of the following medications leads to an increase in the symptoms of restless legs syndrome:

• neuroleptics;
• lithium preparations;
• adrenomimetics;
• calcium antagonists;
• blockers.

Therefore, in the presence of restless legs syndrome, it is recommended, if possible, to exclude any drugs from the above groups, or to choose a replacement.

Treatment Principles for Primary Restless Leg Syndrome

If a person suffers from primary restless legs syndrome, then only symptomatic therapy can be carried out, which is aimed at alleviating or eliminating discomfort in the patient. There are pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods of treatment of primary restless leg syndrome.

Non-drug methods include moderate physical activity during the day, the correct sequence of actions when falling asleep, and a walk in the evenings. It will also help relieve the intensity of the symptoms of a shower before bedtime and proper nutrition. Proper nutrition for a patient with restless legs syndrome means avoiding caffeine in any products (coffee, chocolate, coca-cola, etc.) and limiting alcoholic beverages. It is recommended to stop smoking and observe the daily routine. A hot foot bath or foot massage will effectively help fight painful symptoms. You can also use physiotherapy - transcutaneous electrical stimulation, vibration massage, darsonvalization of the legs, reflexology and magnetotherapy.

The use of drugs for the treatment of restless legs syndrome is resorted to only in case of ineffectiveness of non-drug methods and a serious deterioration in the quality of life. The following groups of drugs are used: benzodiazepines, dopaminergics, anticonvulsants and opiates. All these medicines affect the central nervous system, therefore, treatment should be carried out only under the supervision of a physician.

So, we examined the main manifestations, diagnosis, differences from other diseases and the principles of treatment of such a fairly common ailment as restless legs syndrome. Without a doubt, the effectiveness of treatment is due, first of all, to the most accurate diagnosis of pathology. Unfortunately, today no more than 30% of cases of this symptom complex are correctly diagnosed. Therefore, if you notice any signs of the disease, consult a doctor and describe all your feelings in as much detail as possible. At the same time, focus on the main signs of restless legs syndrome, since with early detection of pathology, it is possible to begin adequate treatment, which will lead to stable remission.

Before use, you should consult with a specialist.

Restless legs syndrome is a rather unpleasant phenomenon that brings a lot of problems. That is why it is necessary to do everything possible to reduce the number of attacks or even get rid of this disease.

Willis disease or Ekbom's disease "popularly" has a rather eloquent name - restless legs syndrome (RLS). This is a condition when at night there are unpleasant sensations in the upper and lower extremities - they make you move and, of course, deprive you of sleep. It is worth noting that the movement that you make, paradoxically, causes relief. This picture is characteristic of a neurological disease. Willis disease affects adults, most often those who are at least 60 years old. But, like many other diseases, RLS has recently become noticeably younger. It would seem, what a pleasure after a long day of work to come home and have a good rest. Agree that sometimes this is exactly what is needed for happiness. Imagine the surprise of those who discover: after spending the whole day running around ... the legs are not ready to rest! Despite the fatigue and aching pain in the muscles, it was as if he had already climbed under the skin: no matter how you lay the limbs, they all itch. Familiar situation? A typical pattern for restless leg syndrome.

Restless Leg Syndrome: Causes

Restless legs syndrome comes in primary and secondary forms.

In the event that RLS arose on its own - just like that, for no reason, from scratch, then doctors call it idiopathic or primary restless leg syndrome. According to experts, this disease is hereditary and occurs mainly in relatives. This type of RLS is rare. Most often, it is the secondary form of Willis's disease that occurs - RLS is the result of some kind of ailment or a new state of the body. The problem is that this phenomenon is based on disorders of the central nervous system, which manifest themselves in the form of an incorrect metabolism of iron and dopamine.

Often such "misunderstandings" in the body occur for the following reasons:

• trauma (especially if the brain is hit with the back);
• pregnancy;
• kidney disease (especially in renal failure);
• diabetes;
• anemia;
• alcohol poisoning (pronounced intoxication);
• drug overdose;
• side effect after certain medications.

Restless legs syndrome: drugs that cause the disease

Some medications cause restless legs syndrome, but doctors do not warn patients about this. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the list of such "dangerous" medicines. If you have a hereditary predisposition to Willis disease, you definitely need to know this!

• all caffeinated medicines;
• antiemetic medicines that contain metoclopramide and prochlorperazine;
• allergy medications (almost all);
• neuroleptics;
• fever medications that contain dipheningidramine;
• antidepressants (tricyclics and SSRIs);
• all medicines containing lithium;
• drugs that lower blood pressure;
• phenothiazines;
• antipsychotics (base - risperidone or olanzapine);
• seizure medications (especially phenytoin, zonisamide, and metsuximide).

Do not forget that alcohol is also very harmful, as it provokes restless legs syndrome: first it relaxes the muscles, and then leads to their contraction.

Restless Leg Syndrome: Symptoms

1. Unpleasant and "strange" sensations in the legs. Patients describe their condition in different ways: trembling, "goosebumps", burning, "moving", "crawling", twitching. At the same time, about 30% of patients claim that during the "attack" they experience pain. Most often, people simply cannot describe their condition accurately - it is quite difficult to characterize it, which is why patients say: “it’s so unpleasant in the legs.” Remarkably, the area of ​​localization of "strange" sensations is diverse - only a stab in the thigh, immediately "goosebumps ran" in the foot, and then the movement became more active in the lower leg. At the same time, they roll like waves with a frequency of 5 to 30 seconds. As for the times of the day, the attacks are mostly overcome at night, but sometimes they may not stop even during the day. Restless legs syndrome often occurs during pregnancy, but after childbirth this phenomenon disappears.
2. Legs at rest - symptoms worse. Characteristic of RLS is the fact that goosebumps, trembling, and crawling become more noticeable at rest. Especially all these sensory and motor symptoms are activated during the period of falling asleep. In order for an attack to begin, a different amount of rest time is needed - it is enough for one patient to sit down for 5 minutes, and the second one needs to “wait” an hour or more.
3. Legs in motion - symptoms disappear. The more you move, the more likely it is that RLS will weaken or even subside. Normal walking helps best of all, but a little physical activity can also be a salvation: bending over, jumping, exercising on simulators. It all depends on the patient and is purely individual. Unfortunately, often the movements give a slight respite, and then the symptoms roll over the person with renewed vigor. If the case is very severe, then pain can be eliminated only for a short period of time.
4. Circadian pattern of symptoms. Early in the morning and in the first half of the day, RLS almost never disturbs the patient. The situation escalates from about 17:00 to 05:00. most often with dawn even the most severe pains subside, giving the patient a little respite.
5. Movement of limbs during sleep. Often during sleep, short leg movements occur at intervals of 40 or even 5 seconds. Approximately 70 to 90% of people diagnosed with Willis disease have these symptoms. Remarkably, in those with mild illness, involuntary movements occur approximately 60 to 120 minutes after the person falls asleep. But if the disease is severe, then the movements of the legs can last all night.
6. Insomnia. Very often, RLS is accompanied by insomnia, since it is sometimes difficult to fall asleep with such a problem, and if you manage to “snatch” a couple of hours of sleep, then frequent awakenings are guaranteed. Often, insomnia becomes chronic, so patients want to sleep all the time.

Restless Leg Syndrome: Treatment

Treatment of this disease depends on whether the primary or secondary form of the disease. Restless legs syndrome is difficult to treat, everything is aimed at weakening the attacks and their complete elimination. Therefore, a successful outcome depends on the degree and severity of the disease.

First of all, do not forget that RLS is a deficient state of the body, so it is necessary to make up for the lack of iron. (Especially since RLS often occurs against the background of anemia).

Ferrous sulfate is prescribed as a treatment. It is worth noting that it must be taken for several months to see the first result and positive dynamics. At the same time, do not forget about folic acid, which can also provoke RLS.

Treatment with drugs is more effective, but certain conditions must be met:

1. Doses of drugs should be minimal.
2. Dosages are increased gradually until the effect is visible.
3. For each person, the drug is selected individually, after personal testing.
4. Treatment should be combined, the only way to get a good result.

Restless legs syndrome: complex therapy

To alleviate the patient's condition, it is necessary to use the following treatment:

1. Sleeping pills (with the addition of tranquilizers). If the case of the disease is mild, then it is quite possible to achieve a visible effect if the doctor prescribes Clonazepam, Temazepam, Triozalam, Zolpidem, but only in small quantities (the lowest indicator). The only downside to these drugs is that they are addictive.
2. Dopamine. Drugs that give dopaminergic effects allow you to get almost instant results. The most effective drug is Sinemet, the effect of it is almost instantaneous, moreover, even when using the minimum dose. Relief comes in half an hour and lasts more than three hours. If the symptoms of the disease do not appear regularly, then it is necessary to take it from time to time - when necessary. In the event that the pill was taken, and the symptoms returned at night, another dose is allowed - right in the middle of the night. You can also take Sinemet as a preventive measure, for example, if you need to be without active movement for a long time: driving a car or flying in an airplane. Unfortunately, this drug has side effects - the "amplification effect" - over time, the symptoms will become more and more pronounced, and the body, getting used to the medicine, will stop responding to it. In this case, as a complication, the symptoms will intensify in the daytime or in the morning. To avoid this, it is necessary to take Sinemet in small doses, as recommended by the doctor and not to increase the amount of the drug individually. Sometimes this medicine can cause complications such as indigestion, nausea and vomiting, and severe headache. If suddenly addiction to Sinamet has occurred, it is necessary to switch to another dopaminergic drug. Permax (Pergolid) has proven itself well. Some experts note that it is even more effective than Sinamet, besides, this drug does not have such side effects as the first drug. Of course, Permax is not harmless, it causes constipation, runny nose, hypotension, and in very rare cases - hallucinations. But there is no "addictive effect". With RLS, Parlodel (Bromocriptine) has proven itself well. There are positive aspects when restless legs syndrome is treated with Mirapex, but the effectiveness of the drug has not yet been fully studied.
3. Anticonvulsants. Another aspect of complex treatment, which cannot be dispensed with. In the treatment of RLS, Gabpentin and Carbamazepine (as part of Nerontin and Tagretol) have shown their effectiveness. It is strictly necessary to follow the dosage prescribed by the doctor.
4. Opiates. If Willys disease is severe, then there is every reason to prescribe opiates. Basically, these are Codeine, Propoxyphene, Oxycodone, Pentazocine or Methadone - in various dosages. Of the side effects of these drugs: nausea, dizziness, impaired consciousness. It is strictly necessary to adhere to the dose prescribed by the doctor, then there is a chance for many years to be saved by a small amount of opiates without an acute dependence on them. If you do not follow the dosage, then you can make yourself even worse, since opium addiction will also be added to the RLS.
5. other medicines. It also happens that doctors prescribe drugs containing beta-blockers - these are non-narcotic analgesics, which are similar in composition to antidepressants. But, often drugs that belong to this category of drugs increase the symptoms of the disease, so they are not suitable for treatment for all patients. These medicines are prescribed only when other medicines do not help at all.

It is very important to understand that if you have restless legs syndrome, then you are sick, and the disease must be treated. You should not let everything take its course and hope for "maybe". Only the timely assistance of highly qualified specialists can, if not cure, then significantly weaken the attacks.

Restless legs syndrome: treatment at home

Non-drug treatment can also bring noticeable relief. It is necessary to strictly follow the rules recommended by doctors:

1. Physical activity on the legs, especially before bedtime. But this does not mean at all that it is necessary to sit in the gym for days or do weightlifting, since the loads should be moderate. Yoga or Pilates, as well as regular stretching exercises, are great. It is worth noting that even the patients themselves claimed that the physical activity that was given to the legs at the beginning of the disease stopped the symptoms, and the disease simply receded. But if you let everything take its course, then soon the restless legs syndrome will develop, and the loads will not bring relief, but new pain and symptoms.
2. Arbitrary massage and rubbing of the legs.
3. Contrast foot baths: alternation of cold and hot water.
4. Mental training: concentration of attention will not only train the brain, but also help to cope with neuropsychiatric stress. Start painting, weaving bead figurines, debating or playing video strategy games.
5. Physiotherapy procedures do not benefit everyone, but sometimes it is magnetotherapy, mud, paraffin and lymphopress that work wonders. All this is purely individual.
6. Refusal of coffee, tea and chocolate, as well as any caffeinated products.
7. Compliance with the daily routine: you need to go to bed at the same time. It is better to fall asleep and wake up late, then during the day you will not want to fall asleep. Make your sleeping conditions as comfortable as possible.
8. Do not use drugs that cause RLS.

Restless legs syndrome: treatment with folk remedies

Traditional medicine also offers its own ways to alleviate the condition with RLS. These tips are easy to follow - they can be used in parallel with drug treatment.

1. Feeling the "approach" of the attack, you need to twitch your legs a little - this is the first remedy to prevent the "dance". You can just walk around the room or take a walk for 30 minutes on the street. Most importantly - you should not go to bed at the first sign of an attack - move.
2. During the day (advice to everyone, by the way), change your body position more often - do not sit all 8 hours in a chair (even if you have a sedentary job). If you really can’t get up often, put pillows, rollers under your feet, put a small stool and rearrange your legs back and forth.
3. As soon as you feel that an attack begins, pour cold water over your legs.
4. Buy a vibratory massager and massage your legs with it before going to bed - this will relax your muscles and stop an attack of RLS.
5. Sleep in cotton socks and silk pajamas.
6. Don't eat big at night. It is better to have dinner with a glass of kefir or a salad.
7. Eat as many iron-rich foods as possible, such as apples. Don't give up on other fruits.
8. Refuse alcohol - it will contribute to the excitation of the nervous system and, as a result, provoke seizures.
9. Quit smoking, as nicotine is the main trigger for symptoms. Often patients are surprised that as soon as they quit smoking, Willis disease also left them.
10. Try to rest as much as possible and not overwork.
11. Instead of tea, drink decoctions of soothing herbs: valerian, St. John's wort, motherwort, mint.

Restless legs syndrome: alternative treatment

1. Learn to breathe properly and relax - this will allow you to relax and, as a result, prevent an attack of RLS. The process looks like this: take a deep breath, throw all the problems and worries away, calm down, feel how your legs are filled with lead, and you cannot move them.
2. Rub your feet or all of your legs up to the ankles with freshly squeezed lemon juice. You can make foot baths with the addition of lemon.
3. Talk to your doctor about taking a multivitamin complex - this is not only very healthy, but also a real chance to prevent RLS attacks.
4. Taking ¼ of an aspirin a day is a good blood thinner that will help, if not completely eliminate, then at least reduce bouts of RLS.
5. Make a rule for yourself - every day you should eat two apples.
6. Rub peppermint oil on your feet at night. Rub the skin until it turns red and tingles a little.
7. Get yourself a hobby - autumn often doing what you love helps to cope with various ailments (and even without taking medication).
8. Remember - your feet should always be warm. If the feet are often cold, this can provoke an attack, and even complications will begin.

Remember! Do not self-medicate, especially if you are not sure of your diagnosis! See a doctor who can confirm or refute your suspicions of restless legs syndrome, as well as recommend how to cope with the pain. Don't forget that without specific treatment, restless leg syndrome often hides under other serious ailments, such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes, or kidney disease.

Restless legs syndrome. Video