Related articles: Restless legs syndrome
Definition
Restless legs syndrome is a disorder characterized by the need to move the lower or upper limbs, often associated with feelings of discomfort. Idiopathic and secondary forms are distinguished.
Idiopathic restless legs syndrome occurs due to dopaminergic transmission abnormalities in the CNS, for mechanisms that are not yet entirely clear. Secondary forms, on the other hand, are associated with various conditions, including iron deficiency, pregnancy, renal or hepatic failure, fibromyalgia and various rheumatic diseases. Restless leg syndrome can also be drug-induced, such as antihistamines, dopamine antagonists and some antidepressants.
The disorder mainly affects women of childbearing age and the elderly. Risk factors may include a sedentary lifestyle, smoking and obesity. Furthermore, hereditary factors may be involved in idiopathic restless legs syndrome.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- akathisia
- Asthenia
- Night Cramps
- Muscle cramps
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood disorders
- Tingling in the legs
- Sore legs
- Legs tired, heavy legs
- Nightmares
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Paresthesia
- Swollen and tired feet
- itch
- Leg itch
- Drowsiness
- Muscle spasms
Further indications
Restless legs syndrome is one of the most frequent causes of insomnia. The compelling need to move the extremities, in fact, typically manifests itself in the evening or during the night. Motor restlessness is often associated with sensitivity disorders, such as tingling or burning in the legs (especially in the calves, sometimes in the thighs or feet) and, in some cases, in the arms. Real pains are more frequent in patients of advanced age. The symptoms are usually bilateral.
Restless legs syndrome worsens in resting situations and causes difficulty in falling asleep or maintaining sleep continuity. The movement, on the other hand, brings relief. In some cases, restless legs syndrome causes repeated spasms and involuntary movements of the lower or upper limbs during sleep and at rest. The consequences of the disorder include repeated nocturnal awakenings, irritability, excessive daytime sleepiness and an increased sense of tiredness.
The diagnosis of restless legs syndrome is based on the patient's medical history and polysomnography. Other medical tests are planned to evaluate the diseases that can contribute to the onset of the disorder (eg blood tests, liver function tests, etc.). Pharmacological treatment may consist of taking dopamine agonists, low-dose benzodiazepines, antiepileptics and opiates. However, not all patients need therapy.
