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Genetic investigation delves into the mysteries of restless leg syndrome

Genetics come under scrutiny as international researchers seek explanations for restless leg syndrome, a nighttime disturbance with roots in various conditions, linked to increased risks of death, heart issues, and diabetes, vexing the medical community for years.

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3 min read
Genetic examination delves into the intricacies of restless leg syndrome
Genetic examination delves into the intricacies of restless leg syndrome

Genetic investigation delves into the mysteries of restless leg syndrome

Winning Over Restless Legs: The Genetic Fight

Do you suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)? You're not alone. This annoying condition affectivly torments approximately 10% of the U.S. population, and women and older adults are especially affected.

You might experience this frustration most when you're trying to catch some z's—at night. It starts off as a throb, an itch, or an uncomfortable feeling in your legs, followed by the need to move them. Relief is just temporary, though, as the symptoms return shortly. At first glance, it may not seem too serious, but RLS often partners with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and more...

Risky Business: Health Consequences of RLS

In a study conducted by researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, it was found that having RLS puts you at a 40 percent higher risk of dying in the next eight years! Other research links RLS to an increased risk of kidney failure, diabetes, and even cancer.

While RLS doesn't cause these other conditions, the associations are concerning enough to spur more research into the origins of RLS, its treatment, and even prevention.

Decoding RLS: The German-British Research Team

To delve deeper into the genetics behind RLS, an international research team from Germany and Britain launched a study focusing on biomarkers—genetic signatures that can predict and identify RLS.

Co-author Dr. Steven Bell from the University of Cambridge explains, "This study is the largest of its kind into this common—but poorly understood—condition. By understanding the genetic basis of RLS, we hope to find better ways to manage and treat it, potentially improving the lives of many millions of people affected worldwide."

Two genetic differences identified by the team involved glutamate receptors, which are crucial for nerve and brain function. This information could potentially be used to develop new drugs to combat RLS. Interestingly, they found no strong genetic differences between men and women, despite the condition being twice as common in women, suggesting complex interactions of genetics and environment (including hormones) might be why this gender difference occurs.

Natural Weapons Against Restless Legs

If you're looking for ways to keep it under control, here are a few strategies:

  • Iron Intake: Low levels of iron in your blood are thought to trigger RLS since it can cause a reduction in the neurotransmitter dopamine. Ensure you're not dealing with an iron deficiency. Be cautious if you're taking acid reducers, as they can impede the absorption of not just iron but other essential nutrients.
  • Foot Wrap: In a study at the Lake Erie Institute, participants who used a foot wrap reduced their restless nights by 82 percent. The wrap targets two muscles in the foot: the abductor hallucis and the flexor hallucis brevis.
  • Inflammation Defeat: RLS shares ties with inflammation. Make food your secret weapon against inflammation by embracing fermented foods. Cut out caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol, as they may worsen RLS symptoms for many people.
  • Get Moving: Research reveals that RLS is more common in people who are sedentary and overweight. Exercise like resistance training, aerobic exercise, yoga, and stretching can improve RLS symptoms.

The Heart's Secret Weapons

Don't forget to take care of your heart. There are perfectly safe and natural ways to lower your risk of blood clots, promote healthy circulation, and more. Discover these secret solutions and others in Hushed Up Natural Heart Cures and Common Misconceptions of Popular Heart Treatments!

Sources:

  • "Genetics study points to potential treatments for restless leg syndrome" - Eureka Alert
  • "Genome-wide meta-analyses of restless legs syndrome yield insights into genetic architecture, disease biology and risk prediction" - Nature Genetics
  • "Restless Legs Syndrome Linked To Earlier Death Risk In Men" - Medical News Today
  • "Prospective study of restless legs syndrome and total and cardiovascular mortality among women" - Neurology
  • "Restless leg syndrome" - The Autoimmune Registry
  • "Exercise and restless legs syndrome: a randomized controlled trial" - Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine
  1. Chronic inflammation, a condition linked to Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), can potentially be managed through dietary changes, such as incorporating fermented foods and avoiding caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol.
  2. Scientific research suggests that sleep disorders, including RLS, might have a connection with mental health, sparking the need for further exploration into the underlying mental health issues related to these conditions.
  3. As RLS has been associated with various medical conditions, including chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and kidney failure, maintaining overall health and wellness through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine medical check-ups could help mitigate these risks.

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