How Sleep Specialists Can Help With Restless Leg Syndrome

Dealing with restless leg syndrome (RLS) can be disruptive, leading to an uncontrollable urge to move your legs that interferes with sleep. If you have this condition, you might find support by working with sleep specialists. These medical doctors have specialized training in diagnosing and managing sleep disorders, including RLS. Here is more information about how they can help:

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Evaluation and Diagnosis

Your first appointment with a sleep specialist will typically involve a thorough evaluation. They can ask detailed questions about your RLS symptoms, such as what the sensations feel like, when they occur, and what, if anything, provides relief. A personal and family medical history will be reviewed.

The specialist will typically ask about your daily habits, including diet, exercise, and any medications or supplements you take. To get a complete picture, the specialist might ask you to keep a sleep diary for a couple of weeks. This log helps track your sleep patterns and the timing of your RLS symptoms.

In some cases, a physical and neurological exam will be performed. Blood tests can also be ordered to check for underlying conditions, such as iron deficiency, that are associated with RLS. This comprehensive process allows the specialist to make an accurate diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Calcium Channel Drugs

For some people with RLS, medications that affect calcium channels in the body are used. These drugs are designed to alter nerve signals. By doing so, they may help lessen the uncomfortable sensations in the legs associated with the condition. Sleep specialists can determine if this type of medication is appropriate for your situation. They may explain how the medication works and discuss the starting dosage. Your doctor can monitor your response to the treatment and make adjustments as needed.

Dopamine Medications

Another group of medications used to manage RLS is dopamine agonists. These drugs increase the activity of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that helps control muscle movement. This action may reduce the urge to move your legs.

While these medications can be effective, a specialist will carefully manage their use to avoid potential side effects. In specific, severe cases where other treatments have not provided relief, doctors prescribe opioids. These are strong pain-relieving medications that are used with caution.

Iron Supplements

Low iron levels are a contributor to RLS for some individuals. A sleep specialist will often test your iron levels. If a deficiency is found, they may recommend iron supplementation. This is not something to do on your own, as too much iron can be harmful. The specialist can prescribe the correct form and dosage of iron for you. They may also schedule follow-up blood tests to monitor your iron levels and ensure they return to a normal range. The goal is to see if improving iron stores helps reduce your RLS symptoms.

Find Sleep Specialists Near You

Managing restless leg syndrome often involves a multi-faceted approach tailored to your specific needs. A sleep specialist is equipped to guide you through this process, from initial diagnosis to creating a long-term management strategy. They provide a structured path for exploring treatments that may offer you relief. If you are struggling with RLS symptoms, finding professional support is a practical step forward. Schedule an appointment with a neurologist near you to control RLS.