Trying to sleep, but my legs tingle as if bugs are crawling... Do you know about Restless Legs Syndrome?

Some people feel numbness or discomfort in their legs before sleeping. They experience strange sensations in their legs and want to move them, which can disturb their sleep. If these symptoms persist, it may be necessary to suspect Restless Leg Syndrome.

Restless legs syndrome is a sleep disorder characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs before falling asleep, and it is a common sleep disorder experienced by 1 in 10 people in Korea. Patients with restless legs syndrome commonly feel abnormal sensations in their legs, but in some cases, symptoms may also appear in the feet, hands, or torso. The symptoms experienced by patients vary. The most common symptoms include a dull ache or tingling sensation in the legs, or a feeling of crawling insects. Additionally, they may experience burning sensations, electric shock-like feelings, stabbing pain, or itching.

Restless legs syndrome has a variety of symptoms, often leading to misdiagnosis as conditions such as herniated discs, varicose veins, nocturnal leg cramps, or peripheral nerve diseases. You should suspect restless legs syndrome if three conditions are met. First, there must be an irresistible urge to move the legs due to uncomfortable sensations. Second, these symptoms occur even when lying down or sitting still and tend to worsen at night. Lastly, the symptoms should be relieved by moving the legs.

The exact cause of restless legs syndrome has not yet been identified. However, it is known that it can occur when the brain's neurotransmitter dopamine is deficient. Since the amino acid tyrosine, which produces dopamine, needs iron to be converted into levodopa in the brain, iron deficiency is also considered a cause. Therefore, the incidence is higher in pregnant women, patients with chronic kidney disease, and those with uremia, where iron deficiency is common.

Patients with mild Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms can alleviate their symptoms through light exercise, massage, or foot baths. Yoga or stretching are the most effective exercises. It is helpful to perform leg relaxation stretches 1 to 2 hours before bedtime. Massage or alternating foot baths with cold and hot water can also be beneficial. However, using only hot water may raise body temperature and worsen symptoms. If symptoms do not improve with symptomatic treatment, medication therapy can be considered.

Restless legs syndrome is important to maintain regular sleep hours. Avoiding caffeine beverages such as coffee and green tea is also beneficial for preventing restless legs syndrome. Consuming foods rich in proteins and vitamins that aid iron absorption is also helpful.