What Is Restless Legs Syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome is a neurological condition that runs its course with uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an urge to move them, particularly during rest. The complaints mostly become prominent in the evening and night hours, can decrease temporarily with movement, and can disrupt sleep quality.
What Are Its Symptoms?
- A hard-to-describe feeling of restlessness, pulling, tingling or burning in the legs
- Increase in complaints during rest or long periods of sitting
- Temporary relief with walking, stretching or moving the legs
- Becoming prominent in the evening and night hours
- Difficulty falling asleep or waking during the night
Why Does Restless Legs Syndrome Occur?
Some people may have a familial predisposition. Iron deficiency, pregnancy, kidney diseases and certain medications can be associated with the complaints. The same cause is not identified in every patient.
How Is the Diagnosis Made?
The diagnosis is mostly based on a detailed assessment of the patient’s complaints. Neuropathy, muscle cramps, vascular diseases and other sleep disorders that could cause similar complaints are taken into account in the differential diagnosis. When necessary, blood tests, primarily iron stores, or additional investigations may be requested.
Treatment
Treatment is planned according to the frequency and severity of the complaints and the underlying causes. If there is iron deficiency, its appropriate correction is important. Regular sleep hours, reducing excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, exercise suitable for the person, and reassessment of certain medications can be helpful.
In moderate or severe complaints, drug treatments can be considered. The choice of medication should be made on an individual basis; in long-term use, effectiveness and possible side effects should be assessed regularly.
Practice and contact information
This content has been prepared for general informational purposes; it does not replace personal diagnosis or treatment advice.
