As you get older, your body tends to have more and more sensations that you will find odd. You will wonder if anyone else has experienced the same ones. As you age, things ache that you may not have even realized you had. This transition might seem exhausting, but a common cliche is that getting old is better than the alternative.
When these sensations first start to occur, it can be frightening. Not knowing what causes them can cause worry if it is a symptom of a severe health complication.
A prevalent sensation is tingling legs. You may have thought that unpleasant feeling was unique to you. It happens when you sit or lay down for an extended period. You may have even had your leg twitch without being provoked.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Suppose you are suffering from tingling legs when you keep your legs still for a more extended period. You are likely suffering from restless leg syndrome.
Restless Leg Syndrome is a condition in which you cannot control the urge to move your legs. This need is generally because of different sensations that make you uncomfortable. These sensations can include tingling, burning, or cramping.
You move your legs because if you reposition or stretch them, it may alleviate the sensation. Even if only temporarily.
Restless Leg Syndrome typically only affects older individuals. This condition does not seem to cause any severe complications. It is very annoying to deal with daily.
Possible Causes
Doctors have yet to pinpoint the exact cause of Restless Leg Syndrome. However, there are some similarities in many of the individuals who have suffered from it.
Restless Leg Syndrome may be caused by a lack of dopamine in the chemistry of the brain. Dopamine is the chemical that the brain uses to control the muscles of the body. Doctors also believe it may be hereditary as well.
Some other possible causes may be an iron deficiency, kidney failure, nerve damage, or a spinal cord condition.
Treatment
Include your doctor in any discussion about treating Restless Leg Syndrome. He may want to run a test or two to make sure no other underlying conditions are causing the symptoms you are having.
The Doctor will decide if you need medication to help with your Restless Leg Syndrome. Many times they will use drugs that relax your muscles or increase the dopamine levels in your brain.
Caffeine is something to avoid if you are suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome. It can add another level of difficulty to falling asleep or sitting still.
Sleeping can be tough with Restless Leg Syndrome. You should make sure you have an ideal sleeping environment. Make sure your bedroom is cool and dark. Invest in a good mattress and bedding. Another great item to invest in is a noise machine.
The best thing for Restless Leg Syndrome is to make sure you have cushions and pillows specially designed to elevate and cushion your legs. Elevating your legs should help with blood flow and decrease the tingling.
It is also a good idea to get regular leg massages when you have Restless Leg Syndrome. You can choose to see a professional for this, or you can simply massage them yourself in a warm bath.
In conclusion, many individuals suffer from the annoyance of tingling legs. It may not be a common point of conversation, but many people have Restless Leg Syndrome. Once you talk with your doctor and develop the proper care plan, this syndrome’s annoyance will be a thing of the past.
