Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a sleep disorder in which a person experiences unpleasant sensations in the legs described as creeping, crawling, tingling, aching or pulling. These sensations usually occur within the calf area but may be felt anywhere from the thigh to the ankle. A person with RLS usually experiences these sensations when lying down or sitting for prolonged periods of time such as when at a desk, riding in a car or watching a movie.

People suffering from RLS often have trouble relaxing and falling asleep because of their strong urge to walk or do other activities to relieve the sensations in their legs. They often sleep best toward the end of the night or during the morning hours.

Many people with RLS also have a related sleep disorder called periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS). Common symptoms of PLMS include involuntary jerking or bending leg movements during sleep that typically occur every 10 to 60 seconds. Some people with PLMS experience hundreds of movements that can disturb their sleep and wake them and/or their bed partner.

People who have RLS and PLMS have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. The severity of symptoms of both RLS and PLMS varies from night to night to extended lengths of time.

Cause:
Although the cause is unknown (idiopathic) in most cases, certain factors may be associated with RLS:

• Family history. RLS is known to run to occur in some families.
• Pregnancy. Some women experience RLS during pregnancy, especially in the last months. The symptoms usually disappear after delivery.
• Low iron levels or anemia. Persons with these conditions may be prone to developing RLS. The symptoms may improve once the iron level or anemia is corrected.
• Chronic diseases. Kidney failure may cause RLS. Other chronic diseases such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and peripheral neuropathy may also be associated with RLS.
• Caffeine intake. Decreasing caffeine consumption may improve symptoms.

Treatment:

In mild cases of RLS, some people find that activities such as taking a hot bath, massaging the legs, using a heating pad or ice pack, exercising and eliminating caffeine help alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, medications are prescribed to control symptoms.

This site is presented for information only and is not intended as a
substitute for professional medical advice.

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