Suffering from Restless legs syndrome (RLS)? Does it indicate towards a serious ailment?

Have you ever felt this overwhelming urge to move your legs, even at rest, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations? Chances are that you suffer from Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease . The condition is a neurological one, and while it is not life threatening, it can disrupt your everyday life.

Why does it happen?
The reasons behind RLS are unclear, but doctors say it could be a combination of genetics, iron deficiency, or certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors. Since no test can confirm the same, doctors rely on patient history and symptoms to confirm a diagnosis.


What can be done to manage it
The good news is that a mild case of RLS can be managed on its own, without resorting to medication. However, if your RLS is severe, and affects day to day functioning, then you should visit a doctor.

Here are some things you can do:

Go to sleep on time
Establish a regular sleep schedule, no matter which day of the week it is. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time, to regulate your body's cycle. This apart, make sure that your bedroom is dark, cool, and comfortable, without external noise.

Stay away from electronics/reading
Avoid reading, watching TV, or using electronic devices in bed, and make sure your bed is comfortable.

Limit caffeine and alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol interfere with sleep, and can worsen RLS symptoms, especially if taken in the latter half of the day.

Quit smoking
Smoking can worsen RLS symptoms and disrupt sleep.


Take supplements
Magnesium plays a role in muscle relaxation and sleep, and some studies suggest it can be beneficial for RLS. This apart, iron deficiency is thought to be a contributing factor to RLS, so if you are deficient, your doctor may recommend iron supplements. You can also take potassium supplements, or increase its quantity in your diet (green, leafy vegetables, fruits, coconut water, etc)

Warm baths or compresses
Soaking in a warm bath or applying a warm compress to your legs can help relax muscles and relieve discomfort.

Massage
Gently massaging your legs can help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.

Stretching
Gentle stretching exercises can help relieve muscle stiffness and improve flexibility.

Relaxation techniques
Practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help reduce stress and improve sleep.

Regular exercise
Moderate, regular exercise can help improve sleep and reduce RLS symptoms. However, avoid heavy exercise close to bedtime, that can worsen symptoms.

Foot wrap or a vibrating pad
These devices can provide temporary relief by applying pressure or vibration to the legs.

However, if you don't get relief even after trying all those, then it's best to consult a doctor.