Describe ADHD.
A type of neurodivergence, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is commonly linked to symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattentiveness, which can seriously impair daily functioning. ADHD is typically present from birth and can last a lifetime, but with the right coping strategies, self-care, accommodations, and mental health support, symptoms can usually be controlled. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) lists the following as possible diagnostic criteria for predominantly inattentive ADHD, one of the three forms of ADHD:
Difficulties focusing on the details
Making comparatively thoughtless errors
Inability to maintain focus on duties
Having problems hearing when someone speaks to you directly
Inability to follow through and complete activities because of distraction or lack of attention
Organizational difficulties Doing things that don’t require constant focus
Frequently misplacing or missing important things
Having a short attention span
Feeling disoriented
The following are examples of hyperactive and impulsive symptoms associated with ADHD:
restlessness; inability to sit still or fidget often
Difficulties participating in activities silently
Being “driven by a motor” or constantly “on the go”
An inclination to talk excessively loudly or too often An inclination to respond to queries or sentences before the other person has completed speaking
Not being able to wait one’s turn
constantly disturbing or obtruding on other people
Combination type The symptoms of ADHD might come from the two groups mentioned above. Generally speaking, symptoms for all varieties must be present for at least six months prior to age 12. They must also negatively affect day-to-day functioning and be out of step with an individual’s developmental stage. Generally speaking, substance abuse or any other mental or physical health issue cannot be the cause of these symptoms.
What is the syndrome of restless legs?
A common symptom of restless legs syndrome (RLS) is painful sensations in the legs during sleep, which frequently result in a persistent impulse to move the legs. It’s possible for these symptoms to appear in the early morning, late afternoon, or evening.
RLS patients may find it difficult to go asleep or stay asleep because of their erratic movements. RLS is categorized as both a movement and a sleep disorder because to these symptoms. The insatiable desire to move one’s legs while sleeping can be extremely upsetting for the afflicted person. Among the signs of restless legs syndrome are the following:
an urge or feeling to move one’s legs after spending a lot of time sitting still or relaxing, even when awake
sensations that disappear after moving the legs
Symptoms getting worse at night
Mood swings An inability to concentrate
Daytime tiredness
Depression
Stress and Anxiety
inadequate recall
RLS symptoms can occasionally resemble ADHD symptoms or manifest in conjunction with ADHD. RLS may be more common in women, older adults, pregnant women, and those with other sleep disorders. For assistance and direction if you are exhibiting signs of a sleep disturbance, speak with your health care physician.
Is there a link between restless legs syndrome and ADHD?
Research has indicated a possible connection between RLS and ADHD. According to a 2023 study, RLS symptoms were frequently experienced by children with ADHD in 11% to 42.9% of cases, while adults with ADHD typically matched the criteria for RLS in 20% to 33% of cases. According to a different study, 26% of individuals with restless legs syndrome may also have symptoms of ADHD; nevertheless, more recent research may be required. According to some experts, these symptoms could be caused by sleep deprivation, which can resemble some symptoms of ADHD. It’s possible that children are more susceptible to these symptoms. On the other hand, RLS with ADHD can strike anyone at any age.
How to treat restless legs syndrome
There are several treatments you might think about if you have restless legs syndrome. Medication is occasionally used to treat RLS, so if you’re interested in learning more about your options, be sure to speak with your doctor. Physicians frequently advise altering one’s lifestyle to lessen symptoms as well. Reducing RLS symptoms can be greatly aided by maintaining proper sleep hygiene, eating a healthy diet during the day, self-care, and taking care of stress and mental health issues. Utilizing a weighted blanket and other sensory techniques to lessen unpleasant feelings before bed may also provide relief for some individuals.
Sleep and ADHD
ADHD is frequently linked to a number of sleep difficulties and disturbances. ADHD symptoms can affect how long it takes to fall asleep or how deep sleep is, which can result in sleep deprivation because the disorder often affects the brain. Among the most prevalent conditions observed in people with ADHD are narcolepsy, sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), insomnia, RLS, delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSPS), and sleep disturbance. How to enhance your quality of sleep Adhering to good sleep hygiene techniques can help minimize symptoms of restless legs syndrome and ADHD. Here are some practices to think about.
