Do you wrestle to go to sleep as a result of your legs really feel twitchy or uncomfortable? You’re not alone. In accordance with a current survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medication (AASM), 13% of Individuals report they’ve been identified with stressed legs syndrome (RLS). With Stressed Legs Syndrome Consciousness Day on Sept. 23, it’s a good time to know how RLS impacts sleep and well being.
What’s stressed legs syndrome?
RLS is a neurological dysfunction that causes an irresistible urge to maneuver the legs, typically paired with uncomfortable sensations like twitching, aching or a crawling feeling. These signs normally start within the night or once you’re making an attempt to loosen up in mattress, however they enhance with motion like strolling, stretching and even massaging the legs.
Nonetheless, many individuals don’t view these signs as critical considerations, so that they wait years earlier than searching for remedy for RLS.
How does RLS impression sleep?
Sleep is among the pillars of excellent well being, together with diet and train. However you probably have RLS, getting sufficient high quality sleep generally is a problem. The discomfort makes it onerous to go to sleep and keep asleep.
If you lose sleep, it impacts your day-to-day life. You would possibly really feel extra irritable, wrestle to pay attention and expertise fatigue, all of which may decrease your productiveness. Over time, persistent sleep loss from RLS can impression your high quality of life.
Psychological well being results of RLS
The impression of RLS goes past sleep. The Affected person ODYSSEY II Survey performed by the RLS Basis discovered that folks with RLS expertise melancholy and nervousness at 4 occasions the speed of the final U.S. inhabitants.
This connection between RLS and psychological well being makes it much more necessary to hunt remedy early.
Don’t delay prognosis and remedy
So, what are you able to do should you assume you’ve got RLS? Step one is speaking to your well being care skilled. Early prognosis and remedy are key to enhancing each sleep and total well being.
Though the causes of RLS can differ from individual to individual, signs might typically be worsened by different well being situations or drugs. Happily for most individuals, RLS is manageable with life-style changes, units, nutritional vitamins or medicine.
When you’re experiencing signs, your well being care skilled might refer you to a sleep specialist at an AASM-accredited sleep middle for additional analysis.
Unfold the phrase on RLS Consciousness Day
On Sept. 23, assist unfold consciousness about RLS. By elevating consciousness, you’ll be able to assist others perceive their signs, search remedy and get restorative sleep. Obtain an “RLS Conscious” poster from the RLS Basis.
