Restless Legs Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a common yet often misunderstood neurological condition that affects millions of people around the world. It causes uncomfortable, sometimes overwhelming sensations in the legs, usually during periods of rest, which trigger a strong urge to move them. These symptoms often disrupt sleep and daily life, yet many individuals remain unaware that their discomfort has a medical name or that effective treatments are available. Recognising the signs of RLS is the first step toward finding relief and improving quality of life.

In this blog, we will talk about restless legs disorder,  the symptoms of restless legs, the causes of restless legs and restless legs syndrome therapies.

What Is Willis-Ekbom Disease?

Willis-Ekbom disease is a neurological condition that affects the nervous system. It causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, especially during rest periods. 

People with RLS or Willis-Ekbom disease experience strange feelings in their legs. These sensations often happen in the evening or at night. The feelings can be described as crawling, tingling, burning, or aching. Moving the legs temporarily relieves these uncomfortable sensations. The condition can affect people of any age. However, it becomes more common as people get older. Women are twice as likely to develop RLS compared to men. Willis-Ekbom disease can significantly impact the quality of life and sleep patterns.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) can vary from person to person, but there are several key signs that healthcare professionals look for during diagnosis.

• People with RLS often experience uncomfortable sensations in their legs, especially when they are sitting or lying down for long periods.
• These sensations typically worsen in the evening or at night, which can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
• The discomfort is usually felt in the calves, thighs, or feet, though it can also affect other parts of the legs.
• Individuals describe the sensations in different ways, such as:

        A feeling of insects crawling under the skin

        A burning or aching sensation

        Tingling or a sensation similar to electric shocks

• Movement provides temporary relief from these sensations. Activities such as walking, stretching, or massaging the legs often help reduce discomfort.
• However, the symptoms tend to return shortly after movement stops, especially during periods of rest or inactivity.

Understanding RLS Causes

The exact causes of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) are not yet fully understood. However, researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to its development:

Primary Causes of RLS

• Genetic Factors: Genetics appears to play a significant role in many cases of RLS. Research shows that around 40–90% of people with RLS have a family history of the condition, suggesting a strong hereditary component.
• Iron Deficiency: Low iron levels in the brain are considered a key trigger for RLS symptoms. This is why RLS is more frequently observed in individuals with anaemia or iron deficiency, as insufficient iron can affect dopamine regulation in the brain.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and reduced iron levels during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, can contribute to the onset of RLS. Studies show that up to 20% of pregnant women experience RLS symptoms during this time.

Additional Causes of RLS

Medical Conditions: Several chronic health issues have been linked to secondary RLS, including:

• Kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Peripheral neuropathy

These conditions may interfere with nerve function and contribute to the development of RLS.

Medications:

Certain drugs can either trigger or worsen RLS symptoms, such as:

• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Anti-nausea medications
• Some blood pressure medications

Lifestyle Factors:

Daily habits can also influence the severity of RLS symptoms. Common lifestyle-related causes include:

• Excessive caffeine intake, especially in the evening
• Alcohol consumption
• Smoking

Understanding these potential causes can help individuals manage their symptoms more effectively, especially when combined with appropriate medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Available Restless Legs Syndrome Therapies

There are several effective restless legs therapy options available for managing this issue. The appropriate treatment approach depends on the severity of symptoms and any underlying causes that may be contributing to the condition.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Regular physical activity can help alleviate RLS symptoms. However, it is important to avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime, as it may worsen symptoms or disrupt sleep.
• Good sleep hygiene is essential. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and practising relaxation techniques before bed can improve sleep quality and reduce nighttime symptoms.

Dietary Adjustments

• Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, especially in the evening, can significantly decrease the severity of RLS symptoms.
• Iron supplementation may be helpful for individuals with confirmed iron deficiency, as low iron levels in the brain are known to trigger or worsen RLS.

Lifestyle and dietary changes are often the first steps in treatment, especially for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms. For more severe or persistent cases, medical therapies may be necessary and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Medical Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) Therapy Options

When lifestyle and dietary changes are not sufficient to control symptoms, medical therapies for Willis-Ekbom disease may be recommended. Several types of medications have been proven effective in managing RLS.

Dopamine Agonists

• Dopamine agonists are one of the most commonly prescribed medications for RLS.
• These drugs work by increasing dopamine activity in the brain, which helps regulate movement and reduce the abnormal sensations associated with RLS.
• They can significantly improve both symptoms and sleep quality, especially in people with moderate to severe RLS.

Anticonvulsant Medications

• Anticonvulsants are another option, especially for individuals who experience painful or nerve-related symptoms alongside RLS.
• These medications work by stabilising nerve activity, which can reduce the discomfort and abnormal sensations in the legs.
• They are particularly helpful for those whose symptoms include burning, tingling, or shooting pains.

Medical therapy should always be tailored to the individual, taking into account the severity of symptoms, response to treatment, and any underlying health conditions. A healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate medication and dosage.

Natural Treatment Approaches

Many individuals prefer to manage RLS using natural, non-pharmaceutical methods. While these approaches may not eliminate symptoms, they can provide meaningful relief and complement other treatments.

Heat and Cold Therapy

• Applying heat or cold to the legs can offer temporary relief from RLS symptoms.
• Options include warm baths, heating pads, or cold compresses, depending on personal preference.
• These methods help relax muscles and ease discomfort, particularly before bedtime.

Massage Therapy

• Leg massage is a popular natural treatment for RLS.
• Regular massage may help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension, leading to fewer symptoms.
• Some people find that self-massage before sleep helps prevent nighttime symptoms and supports better rest.

Stretching and Yoga

• Gentle stretching exercises or yoga routines can also help manage RLS.
• These activities may reduce muscle tightness and restlessness, improving comfort throughout the day.
• It is generally recommended to perform these exercises earlier in the day, as doing them too close to bedtime may overstimulate the body and interfere with sleep.

Natural treatments are most effective when used consistently and in combination with other recommended lifestyle or medical therapies. They can be an excellent addition to a well-rounded RLS management plan.

When to Seek Medical Help

It's important to consult a healthcare provider if RLS symptoms interfere with sleep or daily activities. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening over time.

People should seek medical attention if symptoms occur more than twice per week. Professional evaluation is also recommended if symptoms are severe enough to cause significant sleep disruption. A healthcare provider can perform tests to rule out underlying conditions. They can also recommend appropriate treatment options based on individual needs and symptom severity.

End Note

Having RLS can significantly impact sleep and daily life, but understanding the symptoms, causes, and available therapies is the first step toward relief. Whether through lifestyle changes, medical treatments, or natural therapies, many people find effective ways to manage their symptoms. If you're experiencing persistent leg discomfort, especially at night, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and personalised treatment.

As part of your overall wellness plan, consider how comprehensive health insurance can support ongoing care for chronic conditions like RLS. We offer medical insurance plans options that help you access the specialists, diagnostics, and therapies you need to manage your health effectively.

Disclaimer: The details provided above are intended for informational purposes only. For accurate medical guidance, please consult your healthcare provider. Health insurance benefits are governed by the terms and conditions of your policy. For further details, review your policy documents.

People Also Ask

What are the main symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome(RLS)?

Uncomfortable sensations in the legs with an urge to move them, especially at night.

What causes Willis-Ekbom disease?

Causes include genetics, iron deficiency, pregnancy, chronic illnesses, medications, and lifestyle factors.

​​Can Willis-Ekbom disease be treated?

Yes,  with lifestyle changes, medical therapies, or natural remedies tailored to symptom severity.