Let me introduce myself

[Guest guest]

Hi Everyone,

My name is Curley. I'm 49, live in Kenbridge, VA. I have had RLS

since I was a child. Having read some of your postings, and the info from

RLS.org, I know you are all familiar with the " growing pains " diagnosis. I

also was misdiagnosed while in the Navy. This time it was DJD, degenerative

joint disease. I might add this diagnosis was made without the benefit of an

xray.

Again having read your postings, I hope you won't ask to me leave the

group, but I don't lose sleep due to RLS. I have an uncanny ability to be

asleep before the room gets dark, and I don't think that I wake during the

night due to RLS. Am I in the minority here?

My RLS bothers me during the evening hours, while trying to watch TV,

and during the day, if I'm traveling. It doesn't bother me if I'm driving.

I just found out, earlier this week, that it actually has a name, and

I'm not the only one in the world who has it. I have to correct that, my

daughter also has it. I think putting a name on it, has actually lessened

its severity. No more panic.

My GP diagnosed RLS, and is setting me up with an appointment with a

neurologist.

Now I have some of the standard, I just learned about this, questions.

1. How will I know if my neurologist is current on RLS, and not just saying

he is?

2. Recently, the sensation to move, is being accompanied with muscle pain.

Also, there are times when I don't have confidence in my leg muscles to hold

me upright, although they have never let go, there is a feeling that they

could at any time. Are these latest symptoms associated with RLS?

Just for information, I spent 26 years in the Navy, and do not remember

any RLS episodes while at sea. Do you suppose the 12 hour work days and

plenty of leg exercise, going from deck to deck, had anything to do with

that?

Last but not least. I have a four acre yard that I tend. I'm reading

that exercise is good for RLS, but when I've been working in the yard all

day, the episodes seem to be more often and more severe. What's up with

that?

As for Dr. Levin, with just what I've read today, sainthood looks like

an option.

Thank to everyone.