Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless Legs Syndrome (pronounced: rɛstlɪs lɛgz sɪndroʊm), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move one's body to stop uncomfortable or odd sensations. It most commonly affects the legs, but can also affect the arms, torso, and even phantom limbs. Moving the affected body part modulates the sensations, providing temporary relief.
Etymology
The term "Restless Legs Syndrome" was first used in the medical literature in 1945 by Swedish neurologist Karl-Axel Ekbom, who also used the term "asthenia" of the legs. The term "Willis-Ekbom disease" is used to acknowledge the contributions of both Thomas Willis, a 17th-century physician who first described the symptoms, and Ekbom.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of Restless Legs Syndrome is a nearly irresistible urge to move the legs or other parts of the body, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations described as creeping, crawling, tingling, pulling or painful. Symptoms typically occur or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity, particularly in the evening or at night, and are partially or totally relieved by movement.
Related Terms
- Periodic limb movement disorder: A condition that causes people to jerk and kick their legs every 20-40 seconds during sleep.
- Neuropathy: A general term for nerve damage, which can cause a wide variety of symptoms including pain, numbness, and restless legs.
- Dopamine: A neurotransmitter that plays a role in controlling the brain's reward and pleasure centers, and also helps regulate movement and emotional responses.
Treatment
Treatment for Restless Legs Syndrome typically involves identifying and treating any underlying conditions that may be causing the symptoms, such as iron deficiency or peripheral neuropathy. Medications that increase dopamine in the brain, such as ropinirole and pramipexole, are often effective in reducing symptoms.
See Also
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