Periodic limb movement disorder

Periodic limb movement disorder is a rare sleep disorder characterized by periodic, repetitive limb movements during sleep. These movements can disrupt sleep and co-occur with other sleep disorders.

Periodic limb movement disorder is a sleep disorder affecting approximately 4-11% of the population. People with this type of limb movement disorder experience repetitive jerking, cramping, or twitching of the lower extremities during sleep. This is called cyclic limb movement disorder and occurs every 5 to 90 seconds for up to 1 hour. Movements disrupt the person's sleep even without waking, resulting in drowsiness and daytime fatigue.
Because the movements occur during sleep, the affected person may not realize they have a sleep disorder. However, they will themselves notice suggestive symptoms such as waking up at night for no apparent reason or feeling overly tired during the day. Usually, periodic limb movement disorders are detected by the co-sleeper.
Periodic limb movement disorder affects men and women equally, at any age (although quite rare in children. Sleep apnea, neuropsychiatric disorders, or having a parent with the disorder). Periodic limb movement increases the risk in young children
If not detected and treated, people with periodic limb movement disorder are at increased risk of developing high blood pressure, stroke and cardiovascular disease in the long term.

Periodic limb movement disorder can be primary (the condition is present on its own) or secondary (caused by a medical condition). In the case of primary periodic limb movement disorder, scientists still don't know what causes it. Two potential causes are Dopamine deficiency or miscommunication between the nerves along the spinal cord.
In cases of secondary periodic limb movement disorder, the condition may be due to:
Diabetes; Iron deficiency ; Use caffeine; Spinal cord injury or tumor; Increased urination; Anemia; Other sleep disorders such as restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, REM sleep behavior disorder or sleep apnea; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or Willam's Syndrome; Side effects of some tricyclic antidepressants, sedatives, anti-nausea and lithium; Discontinue sedatives, including barbiturates and benzodiazepines. In fact, cyclic limb movement disorder is often confused with restless legs syndrome because both conditions are associated with symptoms in the legs. However, they are not the same and are diagnosed and treated differently. Symptoms of restless legs syndrome occur while the person is still awake, while periodic limb movement disorder occurs during sleep. The physical sensations are also different. With restless legs syndrome, the person often suffers from tingling or tingly sensations accompanied by uncontrollable urges. With periodic limb movement disorder, the legs and arms will constantly twitch without the person being aware of it.

The main symptoms of cyclic limb movement disorder include poor sleep, daytime sleepiness, frequent awakenings, and rhythmic movements involving one or both legs during sleep. Features of periodic limb movement disorder are as follows:
Involves one or both legs, manifests as tightening, flexing or flexing of the knee, ankle or big toe; Occurs during non-REM sleep, usually the first half of the night; Finally every two seconds and repeat every 5 to 90 seconds at least 15 times per hour. The leg movements of periodic limb movement disorder can vary in nature from night to night, ranging from mild to severe. Occasionally, movement disorders can also involve the hips and upper arms.

People with periodic limb movement disorder may not notice an effect on their sleep quality. However, in reality, the person sleeping with them often has sleep disruption due to these abnormal movements. Therefore, the infected person seeks treatment only after the co-sleeper complains.
When you go to the doctor, you will be able to identify potential problems that may be causing the disease such as iron deficiency or diabetes. Your doctor will also need to take your personal and family medical history, any medications you're taking, and current sleep and lifestyle habits. Blood and urine tests may also be indicated for diagnosis.
If leg movements are highly suspected to periodic limb movement disorders, the patient will be tested while sleeping overnight. Then, breathing will be monitored (to rule out sleep apnea), leg movements, and other important factors. If leg movements occur at least 15 times per hour, a diagnosis of periodic limb movement disorder is established.

Secondary cases of periodic limb movement disorder may go away if the underlying problem is resolved.
In contrast, to date there is no effective cure for primary periodic limb movement disorders. However, supportive treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and help improve sleep. Treatments for primary periodic limb movement disorder include:
Lifestyle changes: Mild to moderate cases of periodic limb movement disorder can be treated with lifestyle changes. Live to improve sleep, such as adding iron to your daily diet. In addition, your doctor may recommend reducing or eliminating the habit of using caffeine and alcohol. Stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can also help. Medication: In severe cases of periodic limb movement disorder, your doctor may prescribe medication to relieve symptoms or help you sleep through a bout. Therapeutic drugs include Benzodiazepines, Melatonin, Dopaminergic agents, Gabapentin, and GABA agonists. In summary, cyclic limb movement disorder is a condition characterized by repetitive limb movements during sleep. Understanding and treating the effects of periodic limb movement disorders will help protect your overall health.

References: sleepfoundation.org, medicalnewstoday.com, healthlinkbc.ca, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, webmd.com