Irrestible urge to move the body due to uncomfortable feelings, Restless Leg Syndrome is the disorder that causes these feelings. This medical condition basically affects the torson, arms and legs, in which a burning sensation or tickling feeling occurs. An antsy feeling is what people with RSL are known to feel, feeling as if little bugs were traveling around inside their legs. Other people may also feel pain instead of the creepy feelings, however all people with RSL say that as they move the parts in which are feeling the burning or pain that all of these feelings subside.

The patient's symptoms offer the most beneift when diagnosing restless leg syndrome. The characteristic feelings will be present, as well as a history of sleeplessness. Since this condition is usually worse in the evening, sleep patterns may be disrupted. Therefore, the symptoms of an RLS sufferer may include insomnia with daytime drowsiness. This sleep deprivation can also lead to a lack of concentration, mood swings and depression. A physician should be told if any of these conditions are also present, because they will help to properly diagnose RLS. A complete physical examination will be performed to rule out any underlying conditions that may mimic this syndrome.

The doctor will thoroughly evaluate the nerves in the spinal cord, legs and arms. Any damage or disease along these important pathways will be analyzed. The blood flow to the arms and legs will be examined, and if there are any blockages, treatment to improve the circulation will be discussed. An important test in the diagnosis of RLS is a blood test, which searches for iron deficiency, kidney malfunction, or deficiencies in key vitamins or minerals. All of these conditions are believed to play a role in the presence of this syndrome. The physician may also test the thyroid gland to insure that it's working efficiently. Chronic illnesses like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or Parkinson's disease may also bring about the onset of RLS and the doctor will check for them. Emotional issues like stress can bring about symptoms of restless leg syndrome as well as obesity. In these cases, lifestyle and diet changes may result in dramatic improvement.

After your physician makes the diagnosis of RLS, you should start a treatment plan.If you relieve the symptoms then you can start getting a good night sleep. You might be asked by your doctor to avoid caffeine, alcohol and antihistamines. Research has shown that certain prescription drugs may contribute to this disease so you should talk to your doctor. If your RLS is mild you could change your habits that might cause it, like, smoking, being overweight, not exercising enough.

Although no definitive cure yet exists for Restless Leg Syndrome, a variety of treatment options are available that can minimize symptoms significantly. It is possible to restore a restful night�s sleep which, in turn, will decrease daytime drowsiness and increase concentration. The uncomfortable leg sensations can be controlled through changes in diet and lifestyle and by avoiding known triggers such as caffeine. Researchers continue to investigate the causes of RLS, and they are determined to find new and improved treatments.