How to care your Legs

An excess in the movement of the lower extremities could mean clear symptoms of the so-called restless legs syndrome. It is a pathology that must be controlled as soon as possible after its appearance.

The incessant desire to move the legs can be a symptom of a pathology . If at bedtime we experience the need to shake the lower extremities we could have Willis-Ekbom syndrome or restless legs. Although it may not seem like it, this is a previously typed and identified medical phenomenon.

The problem with this condition is that its origin is still unknown . It is argued that this is a neurological disorder although of little consequence. However, 3% of the world population could suffer from it in a severe way.

What is known about Willis-Ekbom syndrome or restless legs?

Although there are some predisposing factors, the exact cause is currently unknown.

There are statistics that indicate that almost 10% of the world population shows symptoms related to this condition . It is also known to affect both men and women of all ages. However, the symptoms can be seen in their greatest expression after the age of forty.

Neither a clear origin is identified, but it is that, in addition, we could be facing a picture that can have many causes. Anemia, kidney failure and the supply of some drugs are related to their appearance . In women, it is believed that this may appear after pregnancy.

At present, it is believed that this ailment is related to the activation of dopamine . Movement depends on this neurotransmitter and its coordination through the central nervous system.

Despite the lack of knowledge, it has been separated into two types. The so-called Willis-Ekbom disease is divided into primary and secondary . In the first case, the origin of this corporal manifestation is still unknown, while in the second, we understand this condition when it is caused by other diseases.

Varied and confusing symptomatology

Another problem connected with the restless legs syndrome is that its symptoms are varied and difficult to notice. In some cases it is only the predisposition to move the legs . But this condition has other manifestations that can be annoying.

Some patients show discomfort and unpleasant sensations in the legs . Sometimes, this can turn into cramps and tingling . As many of these symptoms are evident at night, some affected experience difficulty falling asleep.

Of course, this generates fatigue, fatigue and drowsiness during the day. In addition, this need for movement parallels the circadian rhythm. That is to say, that between afternoon and night they tend to increase . Thus, Willis-Ekbom syndrome is a chronic and progressive disease over time.

Identifying Willis-Ekbom syndrome

Tingling and discomfort add to the low quality of sleep of these patients.

To help identify restless legs syndrome, we list the signs and symptoms:

• The need for movement occurs at rest: when we refer to this disease  we can not confuse it with reflex or hyperactivity. In fact, movement usually occurs when we are resting and not during everyday life.
• The symptoms are manifested at night: this is one of the requirements to determine that the condition exists. In practice, most patients diagnosed do not have this need to move their legs during the day.
• Nocturnal spasms: periodic movement of the limbs occurs during sleep. This is in itself another type of condition that is related to the syndrome. Spasm can occur even while sleeping.
• Relief in the movement: the good news is that when we move we can feel that the tingling or the sensation we experience is relieved. It does not matter if we experience itching, discomfort or pain. It usually decreases when the lower extremities tremble.

Possible treatments

In the first instance, if we feel discomfort, the right thing to do is move, it is even advisable to get out of bed and walk for a few minutes . The disadvantage is not so much this sensation as the low quality of life of those affected that is associated with the difficulty to achieve a restful sleep.

Therefore, it is advisable to perform therapies and treatments  that improve the quality of sleep . There are also approaches at the level of psychology, with which you can experience some improvements. Some recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy, because sometimes this syndrome has to do with psychological and emotional aspects.

Those who believe they suffer from restless legs syndrome should seek medical help. Although it may seem unimportant, the effects of this symptomatology usually worsen with age. Even when there is no diagnostic test, it is correct that the situation is addressed by a professional.