Periodic limb movement disorder: symptoms, medications, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)?

Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) is a condition characterized by jolting or shaking the legs and hands, usually during sleep. Sometimes this condition is also called periodic leg movements during sleep, in English it is abbreviated as PLMS. This movement usually occurs every 20 or 40 seconds and can last for several minutes or hours throughout the night.

People with PLMD are usually not aware that their legs are moving. They are unable to stop this movement so they wake up in the morning exhausted or emotional.

How common is periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)?

This disorder is very common, especially in women. PLMD can also be experienced by patients of all ages.

Signs and symptoms

What are the symptoms of periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)?

Periodic limb movement disorder signs and symptoms are:

• Repetitive motion in one or both legs, sometimes in the arms. For example, in the form of moving the big toe or jerking the ankle.
• Not sleeping well.
• Often wakes up in the middle of the night.
• Drowsiness and weakness all day long.
• Behavioral disorders, decreased performance at school or at work due to lack of sleep, easily provoked by emotions.

The PLMD movement usually occurs every 20 to 40 times for 30 minutes a night. Although you move your legs more often, you may also move your arms. This occurs in the non-REM sleep stage (which is not a stage rapid eye movement).

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you experience any of the signs or symptoms listed above, or have any questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body reacts differently. It is always best to discuss what is best for your situation with your doctor.

Cause

What causes periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)?

PLMD can be a single disease (primary) or caused by another medical condition (secondary). As a single disease, PLMD has no known cause. Experts attribute this disorder to disorders of the nerves of the brain to the legs.

Secondary PLMD can have a variety of causes, which usually results in restless legs syndrome.

• Diabetes mellitus
• Lack of iron
• Spinal cord tumor
• Spinal cord injury
• Sleep apnea syndrome (temporary stopping of breathing during sleep)
• Narcolepsy
• Uremia
• Anemia
• Take drugs such as antidopaminergic agents such as Haldol, dopaminergic drugs such as Sinemet, and tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline
• Discontinue drugs such as barbiturates or benzodiazepines

Diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) diagnosed?

Usually a patient only realizes that he has PLMD after a family member or partner complains that he is often kicked while sleeping. Or the patient wakes up with a messy pillow, bolster, and blanket.

PLMD is diagnosed by a polysomnography test also referred to as sleep observation. These observations are made while you spend the night in the laboratory. This test will observe:

• Brain waves
• Heart rate
• Oxygen levels in the blood
• Eyeball movement
• Nerve and muscle function
• Blood pressure

Your doctor may also ask for your medical records and check your physical condition to make sure you don't have any other illnesses that are interfering with your sleep.

Blood and urine tests are also frequently ordered to check for iron deficiency anemia and other metabolic disorders (such as diabetes).

Treatment options for periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) treated?

Medications that are given cannot eliminate PLMD forever, but they can help control the symptoms, for example by limiting your movement during sleep.

Drugs

Some of the drugs used to help PLMD are similar to the drugs prescribed for restless legs syndrome.

• Benzodiazepines: These drugs block muscle contractions and also act as a sedative to allow you to sleep. Clonazepam (Klonopin) has even shown the effect of reducing hourly PLMD movements. This drug is most commonly prescribed.
• Dopaminergic agents: These drugs increase levels of the neurotransmitter (brain chemical) dopamine. Dopamine plays a role in controlling muscle movement.
• Anticonvulsant agents: For some people, this medication can reduce muscle contractions. What is usually prescribed for PLMD is gabapentin (Neurontin).
• GABA agonists: These agents inhibit the release of various neurotransmitters that trigger muscle contraction. Therefore, muscle contractions will weaken. The most commonly prescribed PLMD is baclofen (Lioresal).

The next step - follow-up examination (follow-up)

Your doctor may ask you to come back sometime after you've had the recommended treatment. We recommend that you bring along a family member or partner who sleeps with you so that all parties understand very well about your condition.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be used to treat periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)?

The following lifestyle and home remedies can help you deal with PLMD:

• If your condition doesn't bother you too much, you may not need treatment. You just need to reduce your alcohol and caffeine consumption (especially in the evening and at night) and stop smoking.
• Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help reduce symptoms. Likewise with gentle massage or warm baths before bed.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.