Monday, September 29, 2008

Quinine and RLS

The most common neurological disorder in the world today is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). This disorder occurs among 10% of the world's population. While the cause and immediate cure for the syndrome is unknown, the symptoms can be controlled over time through proper medication and diet.

Most RLS patients describe the symptoms as creepy-crawly sensations, numbness and even severe cramps in their limbs. The symptoms usually flare-up when that particular limb has been kept idle or in an uncomfortable position for an extended period of time. For RLS sufferers, air travel and car travel can trigger the symptoms.

While RLS symptoms can occur in anybody, RLS sufferers experience the symptoms often, to the point where their lifestyle is affected by the pain. Some RLS patients have mild cases that can be relieved as soon as they can move their legs and get the blood circulating again. However, for others it might not be so easy to get rid of the symptoms, which can last for hours.

The most painful occurrence is when the syndrome flares up at night. RLS patients with severe symptoms are often jolted out of their sleep by severe leg cramps. This is why insomnia is also a serious issue for RLS patients.

Today there are many researchers working to find a cure for the condition. One of the most commonly prescribed cures for RLS is Quinine, which was discovered accidentally. Quinine is generally given to prevent or cure malaria; however during the course of the treatment, it was also found that the patients treated with Quinine suffered less from RLS.

This has led to the common practice of prescribing Quinine for patients with RLS. For some time, Quinine has been known as a muscle relaxant. It has been widely used for athletes to relieve them from the muscle fatigue and pains that follow after a heavy work-out or a run. It helps to circulate the flow of blood and oxygen in the legs.

This relaxes the muscles and gives them the necessary energy required to support the body and its activities. The increased blood flow and relaxation helps to ease the creepy-crawly feelings that are common with RLS.

It is also known to provide relief from involuntary muscle contractions. There are many other qualities that make Quinine the most preferred choice of medicine for patients suffering from RLS. Quinine should always be taken in appropriate, prescribed dosages. Self-medication of quinine is dangerous.

Another therapy that has had success over the years is mixing traces of quinine with Vitamin E. This forms a very effective cure for RLS sufferers. With continuous Quinine medication over a period of time, the symptoms of RLS can be reduced.