Overweight Americans Face Double the Risk of Getting the Neurological Disorder
By SUSAN DONALDSON JAMES
April 7, 2009
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A new study suggests that people who have big bellies are more likely to develop restless legs syndrome (RLS), a condition that makes sleep or rest nearly impossible.
IMAGE: RSA and Belly Fat
A new study shows that obese people may have an increased risk of developing restless legs syndrome.
(ABC News Photo Illustration)
An estimated 12 million Americans -- including half a million children -- are affected by the disorder, which causes a "creeping, itching, pulling, creepy-crawly, tugging, or gnawing" sensation in the limbs, according to the Restless Legs Foundation.
"My legs felt like they were being shocked and they would practically move on their own," said Kathy Page of Sedalia, Mo., who suffers from the condition.
"It is hard to explain the immense need to move your legs," she told ABCNews.com. "It's a feeling that if you don't move them and move them now you will just go insane."
"It's a very real condition," said Georgianna Bell, RLS Foundation executive director. "It's something you must have a prescription for -- not just something you pick up over the counter."
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