Restless Leg Syndrome

WHAT IS RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME?

Uncomfortable sensations in the legs with a compelling urge to move the legs.
This disorder can affect children and adults, men and women, but is more common in women.
The severity of the disorder increases with age.
RLS often has no known cause but can run in families and may have a genetic component.

HOW DO THE SYMPTOMS PRESENT?

Uncomfortable leg sensations can be hard to describe and are accompanied by an irresistible urge to move the legs.
Moving, walking or stretching alleviates the discomfort.
Symptoms occur while one is inactive and are typically worse in the evening hours.
Prolonged sitting as in movie theaters/during air travel or long car rides can aggravate symptoms.
While the legs are commonly involved, other body areas like the arms, neck or buttock can be affected.
RLS may be confused with growing pains in children.
It is common for RLS symptoms to come and go, they could last for weeks or months and then go away.
RLS severity can vary. It may be mild in some but unbearable in others, and can affect sleep.

WHAT CAUSES RLS?

Iron deficiency is the most common cause of RLS.
Some antidepressants or antihistamine-containing cold/allergy medications may worsen symptoms.
Caffeine and alcohol use can be a trigger.
Symptoms are common during pregnancy.
It can be associated with other medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease or kidney disease.

HOW TO IMPROVE RLS

Treatment is focused on addressing associated medical conditions and making the following lifestyle changes:

Follow good sleep practices as insufficient sleep can worsen symptoms
Cut back on alcohol/tobacco and caffeine products like coffee, tea, pop and chocolate
Apply warm or cool packs
Warm bath & massage may be helpful
Exercising regularly can help, although overdoing it or doing it too late can worsen symptoms

WHEN TO GET HELP?

If symptoms are frequent and affect sleep and daytime functioning, see your healthcare provider who may refer you to a sleep specialist. You may be a candidate for iron supplements or medication treatment.