Periodic Limb Movements In Sleep

A sleep disorder that is often associated with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is Periodic Limb Movement in Sleep (PLMS). The two, however, are not related, and PLMS can exist without RLS being present.

This condition is relatively harmless in itself, and does not indicate the presence of some other condition. It can, however, cause problems by disrupting your normal sleep cycle. It can lead to insomnia if it is severe enough, and that brings it's own health risks along with it. For this reason, PLMS is considered a legitimate sleep disorder.

There aren't many symptoms, but they are easy to identify. This condition is characterized by lower limb movement, which is often repetitive and lasts for various amounts of time. It will take place while asleep, and will be felt as sudden twitching or jerking or flexing of the foot. The length of time one of these episodes lasts will vary from a few minutes to several hours. Also, there is usually less than a minute between the end of one episode and the beginning of another.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) can also accompany this condition. This will also affect the lower limbs with a crawling or prickly feeling. It can also show up as a tingling sensation in the arms and legs. There are usually no other symptoms that accompany PLMS. Often, a person is not even aware that the episodes are taking place since it happens while they are sleeping. It is usually first noticed by the person's partner as they begin complaining about the annoying movements.

It is still unknown exactly what causes this puzzling condition. There are some who believe that the central nervous system is somehow involved in the development of this condition. This could also be a secondary symptom of some other condition, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, narcolepsy or anemia.

PLMS is usually diagnosed if these movements occur during sleep along with certain symptoms of RLS. This could also be the case if a person complains of constantly being tired and no other cause has been identified. The only way to successfully diagnose such a condition is to spend a night being monitored in a sleep center. This way, every aspect of your sleep pattern can be evaluated.

Because the cause of this condition is still unknown, it can be very difficult to prescribe an effective treatment. Often, the most effective treatments come in the form of sleeping medications, such as Benzodiazepines. This will at least help them get a better night's sleep. Other medications, such as anticonvulsive agents, dopaminergic and GABA agonists can also be used to try and control the movements that take place while a person sleeps.

         

Sleeping Disorder

Narcolepsy Symptoms and Causes
Narcolepsy Diagnosis and Treatment
Sleep Apnea Symptoms and Causes
Insomnia Sleep Aids and Medications
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment
Insomnia Causes, Types and Diagnosis
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Insomnia Cures and Treatments