Understanding The Causes, Symptoms And Effects Of Rls

Understanding the Causes, Symptoms and Effects of RLS

RLS, or restless leg syndrome, is thought to affect millions of people every year, and many of those afflicted have symptoms so severe that they interfere with their everday lives. The symptoms of this condition can range from the very mild to the very severe, and it is important for those who suffer to realize that the symptoms of RLS can get worse over time. Finding an effective treatment at the first sign of trouble is therefore important, as is recognizing the symptoms of this all too common condition.

While the causes of restless leg syndrome are still unknown, there is at least some indication that the condition may be linked to diet. Some diets, especially those high in caffeine, have been linked to a worsening of symptoms in those prone to the condition. It is thought that the restriction of blood vessels caused by foods and beverages containing caffeine can trigger an RLS attack or make an existing one worse.

Other researchers feel that fatigue and stress can help exacerbate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome, or even cause the disease in the first place. Fatigue and stress can also be caused by RLS, however, due to the insomnia that can result, and this can cause a kind of vicious cycle in which the symptoms of RLS get worse as levels of stress and fatigue increase.

Stress and fatigue are also known to interfere with a number of chemicals in the brain, and many researchers feel that this chemical imbalance may be an underlying cause of RLS. In fact there is ongoing research into a number of medications that treat RLS by helping to reverse this chemical imbalance.

Those who are prone to restless leg syndrome should also be aware that nicotine can often be a trigger for the symptoms of this condition. Avoiding nicotine is a good practice for everyone, but particularly those who suffer from or have a family history of RLS. This family history may play a bigger role than many RLS sufferers realize, and there is considerable evidence pointing to a possible hereditary cause of this condition. While the evidence that restless leg syndrome is hereditary is far from conclusive, it can’t hurt those whose relatives suffer from the condition to be extra careful and avoid possible triggers for this painful problem.