Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment in Houston, Texas

Restless leg syndrome, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a condition that causes a strong urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by an uncomfortable sensation. Symptoms typically begin or worsen while sitting or lying down, are most noticeable in the evening or at night, and are temporarily relieved by movement such as stretching, pacing, or walking.

RLS can begin at any age and tends to become more noticeable over time. It can also be associated with periodic limb movements during sleep, which cause the legs to twitch or kick throughout the night and can further disrupt sleep quality.

RLS symptoms can vary from person to person but often include:

• A strong, sometimes irresistible urge to move the legs.
• Uncomfortable sensations described as crawling, creeping, throbbing, aching, or itching.
• Symptoms that begin or worsen when sitting or lying down for an extended time.
• Temporary relief with movement, such as walking or stretching.
• Symptoms that are worse in the evening or at night.
• Leg twitching or kicking during sleep, known as periodic limb movements.
• Disrupted, unrefreshing sleep and daytime fatigue.

In many cases, the exact cause of RLS is unknown, though it is thought to be related to how the brain regulates dopamine, a chemical involved in controlling muscle movement. Other contributing factors and risk factors include:

• Family history, particularly when symptoms begin before age 40.
• Iron deficiency, which can cause or worsen symptoms.
• Pregnancy and hormonal changes, especially during the later stages of pregnancy.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage, often related to diabetes.
• Parkinson’s disease.

Increasing age, as RLS becomes more common later in life.