Dear Dr. Garner,

I have been having a pretty tough time the last couple of years. I have gone to about 10 doctors trying to figure out my problem. I get these weird sensations in my legs, mostly when I go to sleep at night. It really has ruined my sleep, as I am up most of the night.

Anyway, I have been labeled as crazy by some doctors, and others think I am making this up.

Finally, my rheumatologist told me that he thought it was restless leg syndrome. He gave me some medications, which have provided relief.

Do you agree with this diagnosis and treatment?

Thanks so much, and I’m glad your show is back on The NET.

Restless Legs

In Rego Park

 

Dear Restless Legs,

Your story is very typical. Many doctors do not believe restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a “real disease” and often think that the patient is a malingerer or attention seeker.

It is, in fact, a real disease and one that can be very serious if not treated properly.

Patients who have this disease describe some of the following sensations in their legs:

– Tingling

– Cramping

– Creeping

– Crawling

– Itching

– Burning

It is more common in women than in men, but either sex can be affected.

Commonly, the symptoms come on when at rest or during a period of inactivity and are relieved when the patient gets up to walk around. This becomes a problem at night, not only for the person suffering from the problem but also his or her spouse. The symptoms are worse in the evening than during the day.

The causes are most likely due to heredity or due to a flaw in one of the chemicals in the brain, which is located in the same area involved with Parkinson’s disease.

The excess chemical, known as dopamine, sends messages to control muscle movement. If it is not working properly, the muscle will move at the wrong time which causes the aforementioned symptoms.

The condition worsens during pregnancy or hormonal changes of menopause.

Restless legs often appear with other diseases, such as nerve damage in diabetics, low iron levels and kidney failure.

It can occur at any age, even during childhood. The disorder is more common with increasing age.

Four Criteria for Diagnosis

In order to be diagnosed as having restless leg syndrome, the following four criteria must be met:

• You have a strong urge to move your legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.

• Symptoms get worse when you’re resting, such as lying down.

• Symptoms are relieved by walking or stretching.

• Symptoms are worse at night.

Based on your letter, it sounds to me like you meet the criteria. Medication and lifestyle changes can help, so I’m glad you went to your doctor for treatment.

Thank you for watching the show.[hr] Dr. Steven Garner is a Fidelis Care provider who is affiliated with New York Methodist Hospital, Park Slope. He also hosts “Ask the Doctor” on NET, Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on Ch. 97 Time Warner and Ch. 30 Cablevision.