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Dr. David J. Demko, AgeVenture News Service, Boca Raton, Florida | ||
Are you getting a "kick out of life?" Just might be a case of RLS (Restless Leg Syndrome).
Corbin Bernsen and Amanda Pays, well-known for their television and movie roles, are revealing that they have been diagnosed with restless legs syndrome (RLS), a common, disruptive and sometimes painful medical condition. In order to help others understand this often under-recognized condition, Corbin and Amanda are participating in an educational campaign called “If Your Legs Could Talk” to raise awareness about RLS. RLS is a condition that affects nearly one in 10 adults in the U.S. The campaign is sponsored by The National Sleep Foundation with funding and other support provided by GlaxoSmithKline. Many of us suffer, on occasion, from a poor night’s sleep. The cause could be a stressful day at work or too much caffeine. However, people who suffer from restless legs syndrome can face more than an occasional sleepless night. RLS can affect people in many ways. RLS can result in ongoing sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep, and can result in feelings of tiredness, trouble concentrating and difficulty with daily activities. Some people with RLS may present with depressive symptoms such as reduced sleep, loss of energy, work difficulties and irritability. RLS, often described as creeping-crawling, tingling, pulling, or tightening sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move, has historically been under-diagnosed, says Mark J. Buchfuhrer, M.D. "If these symptoms occur two times a week or more, then ask your doctor about RLS." The source of RLS? Good question. "Low levels of Iron (Fe) in the brain may prevent dopamine (a neurotransmitter) maintaining normal brain function", says Dr. Buchfuhrer. "Medications are now available to help restore the chemical imbalance." In the meantime, several non-pharmaceutical interventions help as well. For example, mild, but not vigorous exercise helps. Also, avoid alcohol and caffeine. And make sure you're getting the RDA of iron in your diet. But, check with your doctor first because the iron requirements for men and women differ. Emmanuel Mignot, M.D., PhD, National Sleep Foundation spokesperson and Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine, underscores the importance of RLS sufferers working in concert with their physician. "There are two types of RLS." Primary RLS has a genetic origin, and therefore responds to prescription medication. Secondary RLS originates from environmental sources identified by Dr. Buchfuhrer earlier in this report. Dr. Mignot advises adults to exercise in moderation, try a warm bath before retiring at night, gently rub your legs prior to sleep, and try to keep a regular "sleep-awake" schedule. | ||
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