In today’s fast-paced world, sleep deprivation has become the subject of many jokes and memes, but the reality is that the consequences of not getting enough rest are serious. In our Sleep Support series, we delve into the various obstacles that can hinder a good night’s sleep, such as sleep disorders, chronic health conditions, and lifestyle choices. We also consult with experts in the field for their expert advice on how to create the pathway to a peaceful night’s rest.
For over twenty years, I struggled with peculiar behaviors in an attempt to cope with a puzzling issue: my legs would not remain still at night. Instead, they would twitch, jerk, shake, and move uncontrollably, leaving me exhausted mentally and physically. I resorted to doing lunges on airplanes, pacing during video calls in my home office, and even punching my legs in movie theaters in a desperate bid to find relief. After a lengthy search for answers, I finally received a proper diagnosis: restless legs syndrome (RLS). Although RLS may not be life-threatening like other major health conditions, it significantly impacts sleep quality, intimacy, and overall mental wellbeing for the 7 to 8 percent of adults who suffer from it.
Expert medical professionals like Andy Berkowski, MD, John Winkelman, MD, PhD, Karla Dzienkowski, RN, BSN, and Rochelle Zak, MD, have shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with RLS and the profound impact it has on their quality of life. Studies have shown that individuals with RLS are almost four times more likely to experience depression and suicidal thoughts compared to the general population.
The underlying cause of RLS remains a mystery, but it is believed to be rooted in neurological issues rather than the legs themselves, as explained by Dr. Berkowski. The sensation in the legs can vary from tingling to burning or itching, accompanied by uncontrolled leg movements and difficulties falling or staying asleep. Interestingly, RLS seems to be linked to circadian rhythm, which can be disrupted by travel or changes in sleep patterns.
Unfortunately, many healthcare professionals often overlook RLS due to the lack of awareness and education on the condition. The symptoms of RLS can vary, leading to misdiagnoses or delays in treatment. With limited diagnostic codes and a focus on procedure-based care, many individuals with RLS struggle to receive the appropriate care.
However, new management guidelines and emerging treatments offer hope for those living with RLS. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding stimulants like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, along with maintaining consistent sleep habits, can help alleviate symptoms. Medications like gabapentin, pregabalin, and suvorexant have shown promise in managing RLS symptoms, along with iron infusions for those with iron deficiency. Opioids are considered a last resort option for severe cases of RLS.
The recent update to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine guidelines underscores the importance of individualized treatment plans for RLS sufferers. By raising awareness and providing effective management strategies, we can help those with RLS find relief and improve their quality of life.
