Sleep Disorder: Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg Syndrome, RLS for short, occurs in 2 to 5 percent of all adults. Although that does not effect many people, if you have ever suffered from RLS you know that it is a sleep disorder that can make it extremely difficult to sleep.

What is RLS?
RLS is an unpleasant sensation in your legs in which the only relief is to move your legs. This neurological disorder occurs at night when you are relaxing and the uncomfortable feeling can cause exhaustion and fatigue throughout the day, making daily activities difficult.

What Causes RLS?

Oftentimes, the cause of RLS is unknown. Low levels of iron in the brain can be responsible, as can a specific genetic component. Disruption of the brain's basal ganglia circuits (needed to produce smooth muscle activity and movement) can also be related to RLS.

Some factors can also relate with RLS, such as chronic diseases, certain medications and pregnancy. Researches do not know if they specifically cause RLS but many people have suffered from RLS with these conditions.



Diagnosing RLS
A physician will do a series of tests to rule out any underlying issues when diagnosing RLS. The symptoms are the basic way to diagnose the condition.

Treating RLS
By moving the affected limbs you will find temporary relief from RLS. If there is an underlying condition that can be causing RLS, controlling that condition can help the RLS symptoms. Making lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms as well, such as decreasing caffeine, alcohol and tobacco, changing your sleep pattern, increasing exercise, taking a hot bath or using a heating pad. Some medications are helpful but are not effective for everyone suffering from RLS. 

Restless Leg Syndrome can be managed when you find what it is that is causing the symptoms. It is not something that has to control your life; if you suffer from RLS, consult your doctor to find a solution that is perfect for you.

How do YOU Fall Asleep?

Some nights you lay in bed trying to count sheep, hum yourself to sleep, try to clear your mind, listen to the quiet, and you just cannot fall asleep fast enough! What's the deal with that? Everybody has been there done that and everybody has a method that works the best for them. Here are some ideas to help you fall asleep at night when you have a restless mind.

Count backwards from 100. If you've ever gone into surgery, or watched any movie that involves someone going in for surgery, they tell you to count backwards from 100. Next thing you know, you're awake in a terrible hospital bed and you have no idea how far you got from 100. Try this when you have a restless mind and you might find yourself waking up in your comfortable, warm bed wondering how long that took you!

Before you go to bed put everything in order (in your mind). Calming your mind before bed will ensure you fall asleep quicker. There is nothing worse than finally getting to bed and then staring at the ceiling, wide awake, because your brain doesn't want you to sleep. Your mind is a restless part of your body and the more you have going on, the longer you will stay awake for.

For a restless mind, try drinking tea (non-caffeine) before bed. This will soothe you and it also is a great way to relax before going to bed! Don't go to bed until you feel like you are going to be able to fall asleep, or you'll be awake for hours.

Do you have any tips and tricks that help you fall asleep quicker?