Research has shown a strong connection between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). The neurological condition impacts sleep and quality of life. People on dialysis are at an even higher risk because they have more factors like iron deficiency.
RLS causes uncontrollable urges to move the legs and occasionally arms, especially when resting or inactive. The sensation is usually worse at night and is relieved with movement. As it’s worse at night, it can upset sleep and lead to chronic fatigue as well as mood and attention problems. The feeling is usually described as crawling, itching, aching or pulling.
Almost one in four people with CKD have RLS. It is more common in people undergoing dialysis. Brain imaging and spinal fluid tests have found that people with RLS have low iron, especially in areas that regulate dopamine. CKD is often linked to iron deficiencies along with iron imbalances.
There are other causes of RLS. It can run in families. Neurological disorders that disrupt dopamine, like Parkinson’s, can be a factor. Blood sugar concerns and neuropathy have also been linked to the syndrome.
If you have RLS, there isn’t a cure, but there are treatments. Taking an iron supplement can reduce symptoms, as can limiting stimulants, including tobacco, caffeine and alcohol. That’s especially important in the evening. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine with leg massages or gentle stretching can help. As can warm baths, heating pads and vibration pads. People with neuropathy should always be careful using heating pads and monitor that their feet aren’t becoming too warm.
There are symptoms to watch out for if you are concerned that you might have RLS. If you are uncomfortable after resting, that may be a sign. If watching a movie in a theatre or sitting in a car for an extended period causes you to feel like you physically have to move, you may need to speak to your doctor. If walking, stretching or simply shifting the limb eases the discomfort, it may be a symptom. RLS is also linked to twitching and kicking while a person is asleep. Everyone is achy after a long car trip, and we all occasionally have the dream, as we were drifting off, where we step off a curb and wake ourselves up as we jump. That is called a hypnic jerk, and it’s the body’s way of stopping you from falling if you are falling asleep somewhere it judges to be dangerous. It’s a biological quirk from back when we where still hunter-gatherers. But if you experience these things regularly, talk to your doctor about iron supplements and a plan that is right for you. You can find ways to manage symptoms and live much more comfortably!
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