Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) affects an upwards of 33% of adults with ADHD and up to 42% in children with ADHD.
RLS causes persistent and uncomfortable leg sensations that create an irresistible urge to move our legs. It can sometimes cause involuntary limb movements and is at its worst when sitting, laying, and often sleeping.
RLS can diminish our sleep quality, make us feel less rested, and can even leave us with muscle fatigue.
The worst part is: feeling more tired makes us more likely to experience RLS, trapping us in a sleepy cycle!
RLS can increase our ADHD symptoms like inattentiveness and moodiness. We can even experience delirious, loopy energy bursts from lack of quality sleep.
Studies suggest that there may be a connection between ADHD and RLS relating to dopamine deficiency.
If you have ADHD and experience restless leg syndrome, consider the following...
WATCH YOUR ANXIETY Anxiety and feeling constantly on the go (two VERY familiar feelings with ADHD), aggravates RLS. 1st try to assess WHERE your anxiety is coming from and remind your body that this is not a life threatening issue.
DOPAMINE THERAPY Increase your dopamine intake to lessen both ADHD and RLS symptoms
Go outside for sunlight & movement
Create & use a dopamenu
Take time for self care
Consult your doctor about trying dopamine agonists
Arm yourself with tools for everyday life with ADHD using my # 1 Best Selling book/workbook: "Activate Your ADHD Potential"
Take care of yourself,
Coach Brooke Schnittman
References
Migueis DP, Lopes MC, Casella E, Soares PV, Soster L, Spruyt K. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and restless leg syndrome across the lifespan: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Med Rev. 2023 Epub 2023 Feb 27. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36924608/
Samuele Cortese, MD; Eric Konofal, MD, PhD; Michel Lecendreux, MD; Isabelle Arnulf, MD, PhD; Marie-Christine Mouren, MD; Francesca Darra, MD; Bernardo Dalla Bernardina, MD. Restless Legs Syndrome and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: a Review of the Literature. Oxford Academic, August 2005. https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/28/8/1007/2708104
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