Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome can affect any age group but is found to be more common among middle-aged and older adults. This syndrome is notable for tingling in the legs along with involuntary leg movements and jerking. For some unknown reason, these symptoms get progressively worse as evening and night falls. A genetic component has been found to be responsible for about half of all cases. Other causes could be kidney failure, nerve disorders, vitamin and iron deficiencies, pregnancy, and some antidepressants.

Other Causes of Sleep Deprivation

Diseases such as heart failure and lung disease can keep a patient from resting comfortably or sleeping soundly. Other chronic diseases such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis may affect a person’s ability to fall asleep or to stay asleep.

Then there are psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia that could result in sleep afflictions. One study suggested that skipping one night of restorative sleep can lead to obesity. For some unknown reason, less-than-ideal sleep periods resulted in subjects selecting more fat in their diets the next day.

Whatever the reason behind your insomnia, there are strategies to treat it, like cutting out alcohol. But before making any major lifestyle changes consult your physician.