John Kitsco

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As I stated in a previous blog about those of  us who suffer
from Restless Legs Syndrome, 7 - 10 % of the American population is living with RLS. Some have a mild form and its
more severe for others.

Good news (as quoted from the Restless Leg Foundation) extensive research into the cause of RLS is occuring worldwide
and the researchers are getting closer to discovering a single
unifying cause (one has presently not been identified).

Again: RLS runs in families. In 2007 the RLS Foundation
announced the discovery of the first gene variant that contributes
substantially  to risk for RLS.  This was a study conducted by
physician researcher David Rye, M.D. Ph.D. and his associates
at deCODE Genetics in Reykjavik, Iceland.  We applaud
Dr. Rye for his efforts and research.

Some other interesting facts were presented by the Restless
Leg Foundation:
1-20% of women develop RLS during pregnancy but the
symptoms often dissappear after giving birth.
2-Anemia and low iron levels contribute to a worsening of RLS.
3-RLS is common in patients who require dialysis for end-
stage renal disease.
4-Damage to the nerves of the hands or feet (peripheral
neuropathy) from any number of causes, including Diabetes,
contributes to RLS.
-5Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is common in children
and adults with RLS.

So, there is progress being made and those of us who suffer
from Restless Leg Syndrome, need to continue to be positive
and hopeful. We need to talk to others with the problem and
keep in touch with the Restless Leg Syndrome Foundation.

As they say, with learning about RLS and looking for new
information, you have taken the first step towards
defeating RLS.

Thankyou to everyone at the Restless Legs Syndrome
Foundation.