Periodic limb movements during sleep This condition is most common in people over middle age, especially after 50 years of age, while it is difficult to see in people under 30 years of age. The main manifestation is an abnormal movement of the limbs, especially the lower limbs, that occurs repeatedly and periodically during sleep. The abnormal movements consist of repetitive dorsiflexion of the toes and ankles, often extending to the knees and hips, sometimes involving the wrists and elbows. These movements occur mainly during the light sleep phase and can also occur when some people doze off. The annoyance of the periodic limb movements makes it difficult or even irritating for the patient to fall asleep, causing frequent awakenings that lead to insomnia and sleepiness the next day. Researchers have found the condition to be closely related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, myelopathy, episodic somnambulism, and sleep apnea. Dopamine agonists and benzodiazepines are effective. If you suffer from insomnia, you and your family members are advised to observe your sleep closely for similar limb movements so that they can be detected and medical attention can be sought in a timely manner. Restless Legs Syndrome This condition is very common (2-5% of the population) and can be primary or secondary. Primary cases are mostly genetically related, with symptoms appearing at age 10-20 years and persisting throughout life. Secondary can be secondary to many somatic diseases, such as: peripheral neuropathy, uremia, vitamin B12 deficiency, Parkinson’s disease,, pregnancy, etc.. The disease is characterized by abnormal sensations in the legs, especially between the knee and ankle, sometimes spreading to the thighs and forearms, and has been described as deep aches and pains, bug bites, burning, and crawling sensations. Typically occurs at rest, especially when going to bed or dozing off and reclining in a sitting chair. It can be relieved by massage, stretching, kicking, and walking. Sometimes the condition can be combined with periodic limb movements during sleep. In severe cases there can also be restless leg activity during wakefulness. Prompt medical attention is necessary because the disorder not only interferes with sleep, but also sometimes has a serious primary cause. Medications currently used for treatment include benzodiazepines, methyldopa, and carbamazepine. Sleep disorders are now common, but the causes are complex and harmful. So don’t think that commonplace things, we do not pay attention to, or buy their own drugs to deal with. Sometimes it may work, sometimes it will delay the diagnosis and treatment of the real cause, and ultimately affect our quality of life.