Causes and remedies for leg movement in sleep

Some of us have a habit of moving our legs in our sleep. This problem is called Restless Legs Syndrome or RLS. Usually 25-75% of cases it can be due to genetics. It can also be caused by peripheral neuropathy, iron, folate, magnesium or vitamin B-12 deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson's disease, kidney failure, diabetes, venous disorders, thyroid disorders or neurological disorders. Taking antidepressants, painkillers, alcohol, and caffeine can exacerbate this problem.

RLS occurs mostly in middle-aged or older people. Experts say that if such problems are treated on time, it can be reduced a lot. However, in most patients, RLS does not cause any significant problems. In very severe cases it can interfere with the patient's daily activities. Its symptoms start slowly and then progress, getting worse over time. In rare cases, RLS goes away on its own.

Most doctors say that RLS has no specific cause, making it difficult to treat. If this is due to a disease, it becomes imperative to treat that disease. If you suffer from RLS, following these steps will help you:

Watch the food
Pay attention to the food list. Because it will be possible to avoid many diseases. If you are in the habit of drinking several cups of coffee a day, the first thing you should do is to reduce your caffeine intake. Alcohol intake and smoking habits should also be avoided. Because both of these habits make RLS symptoms worse.

Stick to a sleep routine
Practice going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Following this routine will get your body used to the sleep pattern. This will ease the RLS problem and cause less discomfort. So sleep and wake up at the same time every day as much as possible.

Stay active
Try to be more active during the day. Studies have shown that a sedentary lifestyle can make RLS worse. But don't jog all the time or exercise excessively. Because it can make the problem worse.

Ice packs or heat compresses
If the problem of RLS is severe, you can choose some home remedies to reduce it. When the discomfort is too much, apply an ice pack or heat compress to the leg. You will find comfort in it.

Increase iron intake
If there is a deficiency of iron in our body, various problems can start from there. Eat iron rich foods regularly to reduce RLS symptoms. Add plenty of green vegetables to your diet.

Based on Times of India

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