Restless legs syndrome: the most effective dietary supplements

Restless legs syndrome is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the lower limbs, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations such as tingling or burning. These sensations occur primarily at rest and intensify in the evening or during the night, but they are partially relieved by movement. The syndrome can also affect other parts of the body, such as the upper limbs, although the legs are most often involved.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiological mechanism of restless legs syndrome is not yet fully understood, but several hypotheses highlight a dysfunction of the dopaminergic system as well as disturbances in iron metabolism.

Epidemiology

Restless legs syndrome affects between 7.2% and 11.5% of the general population in Western countries. In France, about 8.5% of the population is affected, with a higher prevalence among women, particularly after age 45. The risk of developing this syndrome increases with age, and in some cases symptoms can appear as early as childhood or adolescence. It is also more common in people with iron deficiency, end-stage renal disease, or in pregnant women.

Symptoms

The main symptoms include unpleasant sensations in the legs, such as tingling, itching, or burning, accompanied by an irresistible need to move the limbs. These sensations occur mainly at rest, particularly in the evening and at night, and are relieved by movement. Patients often suffer from sleep disturbances, which affect their quality of life.

Etiologies

Restless legs syndrome can be idiopathic (with no identifiable cause) or secondary to other conditions. Secondary forms are frequently associated with iron deficiency, peripheral neuropathies, chronic renal failure, and pregnancy. Disturbances in iron metabolism, notably low ferritin levels, are strongly implicated in the development of this syndrome. It is also commonly observed in people with diabetic neuropathies.

Treatment

Treatment is based on the use of dopaminergic agents such as pramipexole and ropinirole, which are often effective in relieving symptoms. In patients with iron deficiency, iron supplements may be prescribed. Other therapeutic options include anticonvulsants and, in more severe cases, opioids. Treatment is tailored according to symptom severity and any comorbidities.