Do not miss this article on restless legs syndrome, a disease suffered by a large number of people

Known for over 300 years by physicians, Restless Legs Syndrome is, however, a real unknown for people who suffer. This is a common disease. Studies show that between 5 and 10% of the adult population has the disorder in Western countries. This figure is even higher in people over 65 years, hovering between 15 and 20%. Despite being so common and easily treatable, most of those affected never fail to be diagnosed and rarely receive adequate treatment.

The disease begins to be felt sporadically during childhood, but after 40 years when it becomes more continuous and discomfort are stronger. Is the onset of discomfort in the lower legs and tingling, pricking, pain, restlessness or need to move and its main feature an appearance at rest, relieved with movement. Subsequent during the afternoon and early evening hours, so that those affected often notice the discomfort Framework is going to bed. Therefore, people with Restless Legs Syndrome often suffer from insomnia and are reduced by 50% the ability to cover their daily sleep.

Problems and Causes

As a result of reduced hours of sleep, who have seen their quality of life decreases. The lack of sleep changes the character, creates emotional problems, increased aggressiveness, creates problems when driving a car or even having to make the long trip sitting in an airplane, can become a real drama. People suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome, to ignore what actually happens, come to think they have a psychiatric illness. Not associated discomfort in the legs suffering with insomnia, unaware of the disease and therefore unable to explain to doctors what actually happens.
Nevertheless, over recent decades there has been a breakthrough in the understanding of the causes and treatment of this disease. Thus, it appears that a decrease in dopamine, the activity of receptors for that substance in the brain are the main causes of the syndrome. Also a deficit in the use, transport and storage of iron in the brain can cause the disease to people. In fact, 50% of people suffer from iron deficiency. It is also common in people with kidney failure undergoing hemodialysis, pregnancy and arthritis. Likewise, many of those affected, approximately 50%, have first-degree relative with the same problem.

Symptoms of leg cramps
Leg cramps are characterized by the following symptoms:
~Severe pain in leg
~Muscle tension
~Inability to move the leg during the cramp

Causes of leg cramps

The exact cause of leg cramp is extremely difficult to define, although some factors are:
~Muscle fatigue due to over-exertion.
~Rigorous exercise
~Dehydration
~Overweight
~Electrolyte imbalances, hormonal or fluid
~Side effects of certain medications such as diuretics
~An exercise unusual or different from those normally made
~Reduced blood supply
~Nerve abnormalities
~Nerve and muscle disease

Cures for leg cramps
What to do when you have a leg cramp?

~Stretching the muscle soreness, follow your instinct, your body will automatically guide you the right way.
Gently massage your tight muscles in the natural direction of the muscle. This helps to relax the contraction and decrease pain.
~A hot shower or warm is a good way to relax the muscle.
~Use cold packs on the affected muscle. This relaxes the muscles pensioners.
For a tight calf muscle, stretch and massage the leg by putting his fingers straight and pointing up toward the head.
Use a warm towel or a heating pad to relieve pain or stress that continues to cramp.

Diet for leg cramps

Increase water intake to stay well hydrated throughout the day.
Foods rich in potassium and calcium will help keep the level of these nutrients at optimal levels required to prevent episodes of cramping.

Suggestions for leg cramps

Some preventive measures:
~Dehydration causes leg cramps. It is especially important to stay properly hydrated during exercise.
Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercising.
~Stretching before a workout is extremely important.
Stretching helps relax the muscles and therefore prevent cramps.
~When starting an exercise regimen, it is imperative to do so gradually. An abrupt change or changes in physical activity levels may cause a leg cramp. Keep wrapped in cloth sheets and feet to keep your toes pointing downward while you sleep. Use a stationary bicycle for a few minutes before bedtime can prevent cramps occur at night.