Best Doctors for Restless Legs Syndrome in Chennai

Stages of Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless Legs Syndrome varies among individuals based on the severity and frequency of symptoms:

• Mild RLS: Symptoms occur infrequently (typically less than once a week) and cause minimal interference with daily activities and sleep.

• Moderate RLS: Symptoms occur several times a week and cause noticeable interference with sleep and some daily activities.

• Severe RLS: Symptoms occur daily or almost daily and cause significant disruption to sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and impaired function in daily activities.

• Very Severe RLS: Symptoms are persistent and intense, severely disrupting sleep and significantly impacting quality of life.

Symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome

RLS is characterised by several unique symptoms:

• Unpleasant sensations such as creeping, crawling, tingling, or pulling sensations in the legs

• A strong urge to move the legs, which is temporarily relieved by movement

• Worsening of symptoms in the evening or at night when sitting or lying down

• Difficulty in sleeping leads to daytime sleepiness and fatigue

Tests to Diagnose Restless Legs Syndrome

To diagnose RLS, several tests may be recommended by doctors treating restless legs syndrome or doctors specialising in restless legs syndrome treatment :

• Neurological and Physical Examinations: These are conducted to assess nerve functioning and rule out other neurological or physical conditions that might cause similar symptoms.

• Blood Tests: These tests check for iron deficiency or kidney problems that might be causing RLS.

• Sleep Study: This overnight test evaluates sleep disruptions caused by RLS. It monitors brain waves, heart rate, breathing, and leg movements.

• Dopamine Transporter Scans: This imaging test measures the level of dopamine in the brain, as RLS is thought to be related to dopamine dysfunction.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Restless Legs Syndrome at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Apollo Hospitals in Chennai boasts some of the best doctors for restless legs syndrome treatment or doctors who treat restless legs syndrome.

• Medications: Dopaminergic medications (enhance dopamine activity in the brain), benzodiazepines (promote relaxation and improve sleep quality), opioids (used in severe cases to manage intense symptoms), and anticonvulsants (alleviate sensory disturbances and discomfort ) can manage symptoms.

• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise (walking or yoga), a balanced diet (rich in iron, folate, and magnesium) and avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco can alleviate symptoms.

• Iron Therapy: Iron supplements, either oral or intravenous, are effective if iron deficiency is present.

• Massage Therapy: Regular massage sessions can relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow, and reduce the discomfort associated with RLS.