Free Article: What Causes RLS

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Facts Behind What Causes RLS
By Elizabeth Penning

While most people would assume you are moving your legs because of a nervous twitch, it is actually something quite different. Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is an actual disorder that is not just a nervous shake or movement. It is important to know the difference, and to find out what causes RLS, and what you can do about it. To know what causes RLS, it is best to consult with your doctor to know why are you are experiencing it. But first, here are some reasons for why it may be occurring: A burning, itching, or crawling sensation within the legs brings on restless leg syndrome. These sensations are exacerbated when the body is resting, and movement of the legs brings on temporary relief. There are several reasons one may develop RLS symptoms.

Reasons for RLS

There is no one reason for what causes RLS, but it is certainly has plenty of sources. Restless legs may simply be a symptom or side effect of a particular or pre-existing disorder, such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes, anemia, or a neurological disorder. It is best to visit your doctor for some diagnostics tests, to see if in fact you are suffering from an underlying disease. Treatment for this type of RLS usually includes proper treatment of the disease, and the symptoms of RLS should eventually fade.

If it is not in fact, another disorder that is bringing about RLS, then it might just be your overall health for what causes RLS. A deficiency in iron or folate may be causing symptoms. A proper diet and exercise regimen, as well as sleep patterns for those who are experiencing mild restless leg syndrome is usually the best way to relieve symptoms Pregnant women experience restless leg syndrome their last trimester of pregnancy, as well as those who are anemic (lack of iron in their blood system). Restless legs may also be a side effect of certain medications, such as anti-seizure or anti-nausea drugs.

Treatment for RLS will depend upon what causes RLS for you. In most cases, a change in diet and overall lifestyle may prove to greatly reduce you symptoms. For severe RLS, medications, including dopamine, may help to calm your restless legs, but do carry side effects. It is best to first consult with you physician to determine what causes RLS, and what can be done to treat it. They will be able to guide you through the treatment process.

Author Details:
Elizabeth Penning, copywriter for various websites including, Natural Deodorant and The A to Z of with her main interests being holistic medicine and all things natural.

Article Source: Free Health Articles

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