Sometimes some people feel strange discomfort in the feet while sleeping at night? Which most people ignore them as normal. But this is a common problem called restless legs syndrome (RLS). It has such a strong desire to move your feet continuously while sleeping at night that you cannot stop yourself. This is a neurological (brain -related) problem, many people do not know it, but this problem of restless legs syndrome often increases when the kidney is not working properly.
What is restless legs syndrome (RLS)?
Dr. Uday Deepkrao Gajare, kidney specialist at AINU Visakhapatnam, says that restless legs syndrome is when you are resting, as if lying on the bed. Suddenly you have such a strong desire to move your feet that you cannot stop it. People describe this feeling differently – as something is crawling in the legs, tingling, or feeling deep inside the feet. Shaking legs can provide some relief, but as soon as you stop, this feeling comes back. This can make it impossible for many people to sleep properly. RLS can affect anyone, but it is more common in people with kidney problems, especially in dialysis. Research suggests that 20 to 30% of patients of dialysis suffer from RLS, sometimes very seriously.
Why do kidney patients have restless legs?
Uric acid deposition: When the kidneys are unable to clean the blood properly, uric acid accumulates in the body. These toxins can cause irritation in your veins, which can cause restless legs.
Mineral imbalance: When the kidneys do not function properly, the balance of essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in the body deteriorates, which can lead to RLS.
Anemia: Many patients with kidney disease lack red blood cells in the blood, called anemia. Anemia can also make RLS worse.
Impact of dialysis: If you are getting dialysis, these factors often come together, which increases the risk of RLS.
What are preventive measures?
Complete iron deficiency: Iron deficiency is common in kidney problems. If there is a deficiency of iron in your body, then your doctor can prescribe iron supplements or give you iron through veins. Taking the right amount of iron can cause a lot of difference.
Changes in dialysis: Sometimes, changes in the method of dialysis or improving its quality can provide relief from RLS.
Change your habits: Take a good diet. Drink more water. Be active and exercise regularly. Decide a certain time of gold and stay on it. Do some light stretching exercises before bedtime.