Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless Legs Syndrome
Other names	Willis-Ekbom disease
Specialty	Neurology, Sleep medicine
Symptoms	Uncomfortable sensations in the legs with a strong urge to move them
Complications	Sleep disturbances, mood swings
Usual onset	Any age, often worsens with age
Duration	Long term
Types	Primary, Secondary
Causes	Often unknown, genetic, iron deficiency, chronic kidney disease
Diagnostic method	Based on symptoms, medical history
Differential diagnosis	Peripheral neuropathy, Akathisia, Parkinson's disease
Treatment	Lifestyle changes, medications
Medication	Dopamine agonists, Benzodiazepines, Anticonvulsants
Frequency	~2.5–15% of people

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, typically accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. These sensations are often described as crawling, tingling, or burning feelings, which generally occur in the evening or nighttime hours and are relieved by movement.

Symptoms and Signs

The primary symptom of RLS is the compelling urge to move the legs, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations. These sensations typically occur in the calf area but may be felt anywhere from the thigh to the ankle. Movement provides temporary relief from the discomfort. Symptoms can vary from mild to intolerable and can disrupt sleep, contributing to daytime fatigue and mood disturbances.

Causes

The exact cause of RLS is unknown, but several factors are believed to be involved:

• Genetic factors: There is a strong genetic component, as the condition is often seen in families where the onset of symptoms is before age 40.
• Iron deficiency: Low levels of iron in the brain may be associated with RLS.
• Chronic diseases: Conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and peripheral neuropathy are associated with an increased risk of RLS.
• Pregnancy: Some women experience RLS during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of RLS is primarily based on patient history and symptom description. There are no specific tests to diagnose RLS, but tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions or to identify underlying causes, such as iron deficiency.

Treatment

Treatment for RLS may include lifestyle changes, such as establishing regular sleep patterns and avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Medications used to treat RLS include:

• Dopamine agonists (e.g., pramipexole, ropinirole)
• Benzodiazepines (e.g., clonazepam)
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., gabapentin)

Iron supplementation may be recommended if iron deficiency is identified.

Epidemiology

RLS affects approximately 2.5–15% of the American population. It can begin at any age, including childhood, but most often its severity increases with age.

See Also

• Sleep disorder
• Neurology
• Iron deficiency

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