Migraines and restless leg syndrome are two conditions that often go hand in hand.
It can be a daily struggle for those who suffer from both to cope with the symptoms.
This blog post will discuss migraines and RLS, how they affect day-to-day life in those diagnosed, and how they can manifest together to cause many issues for those dealing with them.
What Is RLS?
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs.
This urge is often accompanied by a tingling or crawling sensation in the legs.
RLS can occur at any time, but it is most common at night when a person is lying down.
RLS is a mild condition that may cause only minor discomfort for some people.
However, for others, RLS can be a debilitating condition that interferes with daily life.
The cause of RLS is unknown. However, some risk factors may contribute to RLS development, including iron deficiency, kidney failure, and Parkinson’s disease.
Many women in different pregnancy stages have also reported experiencing RLS.
What Are the Symptoms of RLS?
The most common symptom of RLS is the urge to move the legs.
This urge can be accompanied by:
- An inability to keep the legs still
- Discomfort in the legs
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
RLS not only causes physical discomfort but many mental health issues as well.
Those with RLS often suffer from:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Mood swings
What Is a Migraine?
A migraine is a headache characterized by severe pain, throbbing, and often nausea and vomiting.
Migraines can last for hours or even days, leaving those affected feeling drained and exhausted.
The exact cause of migraines is unknown, but they are thought to be caused by genetic and environmental factors.
Migraines may be triggered by:
- Stress
- Hormonal changes in women (during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause)
- Sensory stimuli (bright lights, loud noises, strong smells)
- Changes in weather or barometric pressure
- Certain foods or food additives
What Are the Symptoms of Migraines?
Migraine symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common migraines happen in four stages.
Prodrome
This stage can happen hours or even days before a migraine headache and provides an early warning that a migraine is coming.
During this time, people may experience:
- Changes in mood
- Increased urination
- Food cravings
- Neck stiffness
Prodrome symptoms are often followed by aura symptoms.
Aura
Aura is the second stage of migraine and usually lasts less than 60 minutes.
During the aura stage, the nervous system is affected, and the effects build up gradually, causing:
- Pins and needles feeling in the hands and feet
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Visual disturbances (flashing lights, zig-zag lines, or temporary blindness)
Since the aura stage is very short, it leads directly to the migraine attack.
Migraine Attack
The main attack is the third stage and the most difficult to deal with.
Having multiple migraines every month can leave someone feeling hopeless and extremely irritated.
Migraine attacks can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days, and the pain can be so severe that it interferes with everyday activities.
Postdrome
The final stage of a migraine headache is the postdrome.
This stage often happens after the pain of the migraine has subsided.
This is when all of the hard work the migraine puts your body through is finally released, leaving you feeling completely exhausted and drained.
Postdrome symptoms can last for a day or two, and sudden head movements can often worsen the effects of coming down from the migraine.
Migraines and RLS: How Do They Affect Each Other?
There are a few different ways that migraines and RLS can interact and affect each other.
The first is that people who experience RLS are more likely to suffer from migraines.
Studies have shown that up to 25% of people who suffer from migraines also have RLS.
It has also been found that a vitamin D deficiency has been linked to the two issues, but scientists are still studying how the deficiency affects migraines and RLS.
The second way that migraines and RLS can interact is that the pain from RLS can trigger migraines.
The discomfort in the legs caused by RLS can lead to increased stress and tension, which are both migraine triggers.
RLS can also cause sleep deprivation, which is another trigger for migraines.
Lastly, migraines and RLS can cause similar symptoms.
Both can cause pain, fatigue, and mood swings.
They can also both be worse at night and interfere with daily activities.
If you suffer from both migraines and RLS, it is essential to speak to your doctor about the best way to manage your symptoms.
Evexia Wellness Centers Can Help
Evexia Wellness Centers can help provides those suffering from migraines and RLS with the relief they need.
We offer various services using ketamine-assisted therapy to help our patients heal and find the relief they need.
Ketamine has been shown to be an effective treatment for migraines and RLS, and our team of experts can help you find the right treatment plan for you.
Most medicines that we use today are often ineffective for days or weeks before the patient starts to notice any relief.
However, with ketamine-assisted therapy, patients can feel the effects of the medicine almost immediately. Ketamine binds to receptors in the brain quickly, sending hormones to the rest of your body that will help to reduce pain and improve mood.
If you are struggling with migraines or RLS, there is hope, and Evexia Wellness Centers can help.
We would love to talk with you about your unique situation and see how we can help. You can schedule a free consultation by clicking here.
It’s time to free yourself or your loved one from the psychical or mental pain that can come with migraines and RLS.