The symptoms of RLS can develop at any age, including in children. Sometimes a doctor may think that a child suffering from RLS is hyperactive. More typically, however, RLS develops in middle-age or later. Slightly more women seem to develop the disorder than men and pregnant women often experience symptoms during their last trimester. However, their symptoms usually go away within a month of delivery.
Exact symptoms vary from person to person. An international team of health care professionals has defined four criteria for a diagnosis of restless leg syndrome:
- Patients have the strong urge to move their legs that may be impossible to resist. These urges are usually caused by uncomfortable and unpleasant sensations, which are described as occurring deep in the legs
- Patients have symptoms that worsen during rest or inactivity
- Patients have symptoms that are partially or totally relieved by movement
- Patients have the worst symptoms at night
It is important that people with RLS seek medical help. First and foremost, a physician will rule out other medical conditions, such as anemia or diabetes, which might cause similar symptoms. If no specific cause is found, a doctor will most likely recommend a series of lifestyle changes. Research has shown certain vitamins and supplements may help, so your physician may make dietary recommendations as well. Massage and cold compresses may be used to provide temporary relief of symptoms.
When symptoms remain difficult to control through these methods, doctors may prescribe medication. There currently are no drugs approved specifically to treat RLS. But drugs used for other conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, are often effective against RLS, and have been widely used for many years. Opioids, like codeine and oycodone, may help as well.
Millions of people are denied a good night's sleep because of RLS, and there's no reason to suffer in silence, so speak to your doctor.
