Experts claim that there are lots of potential triggers to this condition that causes ‘irresistible’ urges
A doctor has warned that you might have this medical problem if you cannot control these body parts in bed. It could be something that makes it impossible to get a good nights sleep.
Restless leg syndrome is fairly common, according to the NHS website, and causes the nervous system to have an “irresistible urge to move the legs”. Despite the legs being named in the condition, it is not uncommon for people to have these urges in their arms too.
In most cases, there’s no obvious cause of restless legs syndrome. Experts believe it could be genetic or how the body processes dopamine – a chemical involved in controlling muscle movement.
Dr Asif Ahmed said that the “uncontrollable” urges can be “a mild annoyance” or even go as far as full-scale depression and make sleep “impossible”. According to the NHS: “These unpleasant sensations can range from mild to unbearable, and are usually worse in the evening and during the night.”
He said it’s a condition can be “very tricky to diagnose” and usually needs to meet certain criteria before a doctor won’t rule it out.
Along with the unpleasant feeling – almost like pins and needles, Dr Ahmed said there needs to be “no other cause” of the symptoms. This is often determined by a blood test or physical examination.
Everyone is at risk of developing this syndrome, but some are more susceptible. The NHS claims that women are twice as likely to develop the syndrome as men, and it’s also more common in those who are middle-aged.
Dr Ahmed added that certain conditions have been linked to restless leg syndrome. For example, he said: “What can potentially cause it is being low in iron, low in B12, pregnancy or some medications – in particular antipsychotics or anti-depression meds.”
Treatment can be just as tricky as diagnosis, the doctor claims. Some people may be able to rid themselves of the syndrome by making a few lifestyle changes whilst others could need medication.
The NHS website states: “A number of lifestyle changes may be enough to ease the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. If symptoms are more severe, medication may be needed.
“Restless legs syndrome caused by an underlying health condition can often be cured by treating that condition. For example, iron deficiency anaemia can be treated by taking iron supplements.”
New mums who experience this during their pregnancy are told that restless leg “usually disappears on its own” around four weeks after giving birth.
If restless legs syndrome is badly disrupting your sleep, a short-term course of medicine may be recommended to help you. Usually, these types of pills are prescribed for no more than a week.
