Just about every sleep disorder that afflicts humans is Youtube-worthy when it affects our dogs! (You have to watch the whole video, the last one's the best). The first thing that comes to my mind when I think of restless leg syndrome is my childhood lab sound asleep under the dining room table blissfully chasing rabbits in his sleep. But I know, all too well, that restless leg syndrome is not that funny or cute- especially during pregnancy.
What is restless leg syndrome?
Restless Leg Syndrome (also known as Willis Ekbom Disease) is a common and treatable neurologic disorder. WED/RLS results in an irresistible urge to move the legs or other parts of the body, often accompanied by unusual or unpleasant sensations that may be described as creeping, tugging or pulling. Because symptoms most often occurs in the evening, they can severely disrupt sleep and reduce quality of life. Up to 7-10% of the US population has WED/RLS ranging from mild to severe. It affects about 25% of pregnant women, but usually disappears after pregnancy.
Why is restless leg syndrome common during pregnancy?
WED/RLS in pregnancy might be triggered by a lack of enough folic acid or iron. There's also some evidence that rising estrogen or other hormone levels during pregnancy may contribute to WED/RLS.
How can you prevent/treat restless leg syndrome during pregnancy?
Most drugs typically used to treat restless legs syndrome, such as Requip (ropinirole) and Mirapex (pramipexole), have not been studied extensively in pregnant women. So there is not enough data to determine all potential risks. Here are some safe options:
- Talk to you doctor and test your iron levels.
- Avoid drinking coffee, soda, and other caffeinated beverages.
- Exercise daily.
- Get into a regular sleep routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
If you wake in the night with WED/RLS try these tips for getting back to sleep:
- Massage your legs.
- Apply a warm or cold compress to your leg muscles
- Get up and walk or stretch your legs.
- Read or watch TV to distract yourself.
Even though most cases of WED/RLS end after pregnancy, it is important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing other symptoms or extreme discomfort so you can get back to sleeping like this guy.
Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cubanrefugee/
Click on the link below to learn more about sleep disorders like RLS.
