Restless Legs Syndrome affects more women

Sleep A 'loose leg' could be a simple expression that denotes rest without worry, if it is not associated with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), which deals with a serious problem of health that affects 8% of the world population.

Although the syndrome affects both sexes, it has a higher incidence in women, and can start at any age, even from childhood. Pregnant women, for example, present it temporarily until they feel relief after giving birth. However, most of the severely affected patients are of middle age or older adults and with chronic diseases such as renal failure, diabetes or Parkinson's disease.

 

Tingling that forces the movement of feet

It is a neurological disorder characterized by an unpleasant sensation of discomfort in the lower extremities that causes irresistible impulses to move them, forcing the sufferer to get up and walk or massage.

Many people who suffer from it describe the sensation as a tingling sensation accompanied by numbness of the legs that is only relieved by movement; Generally, these sensations occur deep inside the limb, between the knee and the ankle, and are less frequent in the feet, thighs, arms and hands.

If the SPI is not treated medically, it causes exhaustion and fatigue during the day, lack of concentration, impaired memory and insomnia for long periods. All this can degenerate into depression and, therefore, into the deterioration of their quality of life.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke of the United States (NINDS) warns about the fact that many people do not seek medical attention because they are unaware that there is treatment and medication to control RLS.

Research lines in Mexico

Specialists from the National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz (INPRFM) study this disorder through several lines of research. One of them is the analysis of poor nutrition and anemia problems in those who suffer from it, since this could be related to cerebral iron levels.

Another area of ​​study has to do with sleep processes: by observing how patients sleep and knowing their family history, hereditary factors that could influence the problem can be identified.

The INPRFM researchers also study the neurophysiology behind the disease, in particular, nerve conduction velocities.


Although there are no figures for the Mexican population that suffers from RLS, experts estimate that it could occur in one in 10 individuals at some point in their lives.


The Restless Legs Syndrome can stop being a torture, if it is attended opportunely going to the doctor. Watch your health!


Video Medicine: Relieving Restless Leg Syndrome (March 2024).