Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 11: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes an uncomfortable or irresistible urge to move the legs. People with the condition may experience sensations such as creeping, tingling, pulling, aching or burning deep inside the legs.
The symptoms generally become worse while sitting or lying down, particularly at night. Moving the legs may provide temporary relief, but recurring symptoms can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
According to Dr Gaurav Batra, Principal Consultant-Neurosurgeon at Yashoda Medicity, Indirapuram, persistent symptoms of RLS should not be ignored, particularly when they begin affecting sleep and daily activities.
RLS has been linked to changes in the brain’s dopamine system and iron deficiency. It may also have a hereditary component and can occur more frequently during pregnancy.
Certain health conditions, including kidney disease, diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, may coexist with RLS. Some medicines can also trigger or worsen the symptoms.
Common symptoms include an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, crawling or aching, symptoms that worsen during periods of rest, particularly at night, and temporary relief after moving the legs. Poor sleep caused by recurring symptoms may also result in daytime sleepiness.
Lifestyle changes may help some people manage RLS symptoms. Maintaining adequate sleep, exercising regularly and including stretching exercises may be beneficial. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake and avoiding smoking may also help.
People who notice that their symptoms started or became worse after taking a particular medicine should discuss the medication with their doctor rather than stopping it on their own. Doctors may also recommend blood tests to check iron levels, as iron deficiency can be associated with RLS.
Occasional symptoms do not necessarily require evaluation by a neurosurgeon. However, frequent or worsening symptoms, especially those affecting sleep, work or daytime functioning, should be discussed with a doctor.
Most people with uncomplicated RLS do not need to consult a neurosurgeon. A neurosurgical evaluation may be considered when symptoms are accompanied by signs suggesting another structural or neurological condition.
Warning signs include weakness, numbness, difficulty walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, back pain or rapidly developing symptoms. Such symptoms should not automatically be attributed to RLS and may require further medical evaluation.
RLS should therefore not always be self-diagnosed. Although the urge to move the legs and uncomfortable sensations are characteristic features, similar symptoms can occur with other neurological or structural conditions.
For most people with uncomplicated RLS, appropriate medical evaluation and management are sufficient without neurosurgical intervention. However, symptoms involving weakness, numbness, walking difficulties, bladder or bowel problems, back pain or rapid progression warrant timely medical attention.