Restless legs syndrome There is no cure.. It is a chronic neurological disorder that can not be prevented or completely cured. The treatment aims to alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of sleep.
The treatment of restless legs syndrome depends on the cause, frequency and intensity of symptoms, as well as the presence or absence of pain.
To treat the syndrome are used medicines and measures have been taken to help ease the symptoms. It is also important to identify and rule out factors that can worsen the picture.
They are part of non-medicated treatment of restless legs syndrome:
⇒ Avoid sleep deprivation, as fatigue worsens the disorder;
⇒ Reduce the consumption of alcoholic beverages, caffeine and other stimulants such as cigarettes (nicotine);
⇒ If possible, discontinue the use of tricyclic antidepressant medications and serotonin reuptake blockers, in addition to antihistamines;
⇒ Practice physical activity regularly as it helps you sleep better.
The drug treatment is done with anticonvulsants, benzodiazepines (soothing) and medicines that stimulate the production of dopamine.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that drives nerve impulses and is present in lesser numbers in people with restless legs syndrome. Its decrease or lack in the body affects the movements of the body.
In cases of anemia (one of the causes of the syndrome), iron supplements and vitamins are also used.
See other causes of restless legs syndrome here.
With medication and control measures it is possible to soften the picture, relieving the symptoms and improving the quality of life of the patient.
The specialist for treating restless legs syndrome is the neurologist.
Learn more at:
Sleep Disorders: What are the main types and how to identify them?
What are the symptoms of sleep disorders?
What are the phases of sleep and what happens in each of them?
