[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]What is RLS (Restless legs syndrome)? It is a problem that is part of the nervous system causing the urge of the legs to move. Restless leg syndrome might be caused by the brain circuits that use dopamine short-circuiting. This interruption of the circuits transmitting dopamine through the brain can cause sudden muscle spasms or involuntary movements. This usually occurs during sleep and considered a sleep disorder. The symptoms usually start from inactivity or resting, especially when lying down or reclining. These symptoms can be relieved fully or partially by walking, movement and stretching. It is important to incorporate these activities as part of your lifestyle to manage Parkinson’s.
People with Parkinson’s can experience these types of leg movements which are common. This usually happens when resting and manifest it by an irresistible urge in the legs to move them to relieve the sensations. Restless Leg Syndrome is a relatively common problem facing people with Parkinson’s.
These symptoms can be mild or severe, come and go.
Another syndrome that affects people with Parkinson’s is PLMS (Periodic Leg Movements of Sleep), which is strong jerking moves of the legs during sleep. These are not painful or uncomfortable but do interrupt sleep. The person who this most adversely affects is the sleep partner. PLMS and RLS can be caused by side effects of medication or other medical conditions besides Parkinson’s.
The most common people with RLS are middle aged or older women. The sleep disorder is often misdiagnosed, but when recognized can be treated successfully.
Chronic diseases as Parkinson’s disease it is common to have an iron deficiency which contribute to RLS, as well as genetics, about 50% of people with RLS have family with the condition. RLS has nothing to do with the amount of iron in your blood. It is the low levels of iron in the brain specifically the substantia nigra region in the brain where the dopamine regulating center is.
Medications that can cause RLS in people with Parkinson’s include some antinausea drugs as well as some antipsychotic medications, some antidepressants, cold and allergy medications which antihistamines. Always check with your doctor and discuss your medications if the RLS or PLMS is causing sleep disorders. Avoiding coffee and other products that contain caffeine, such as chocolate, soft drinks and tea, can help relieve symptoms of restless legs syndrome, Because stress and fatigue can worsen restless legs syndrome, learning and practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can alleviate symptoms
If you are experiencing any of this symptoms see your Doctor and be sure to bring a list of our medications as well as your daily routines, including exercise, stretching and walking and the time of day. This gives your Doctor the necessary information to make a good diagnosis and prescribe treatment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
