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January 24, 2008 11:25 AM
Key Points
- Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensory disorder causing an almost irresistible urge to move the legs. The urge to move the legs is usually due to unpleasant feelings in the legs that occur when at rest. Movement eases the feelings but only for a while.
- Symptoms of RLS can range from mild to severe. Symptoms tend to get worse over time. They sometimes begin during childhood.
- People with RLS may describe the unpleasant feelings in their legs as creeping, crawling, tingling, burning, or painful. Often, the feelings are hard to describe.
- Many people with RLS also have periodic limb movement disorder. This is a condition in which a person’s legs twitch or jerk uncontrollably every 10 to 60 seconds. This usually happens during sleep.
- RLS can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. People with RLS often don’t get enough sleep and may feel tired and sleepy during the day.
- There are two types of RLS: primary and secondary.
- In primary RLS the cause is not known. However, it tends to run in families.
- Secondary RLS is RLS that is caused by another disease or condition or, sometimes, by taking certain medicines.
- RLS is common in pregnant women. It usually occurs during the last 3 months of pregnancy and usually improves or disappears within a few weeks after delivery.
- Lifestyle changes can improve and relieve symptoms of RLS. Lifestyle changes may be the only treatment needed for mild symptoms of RLS.
- Medicines can help to treat more severe symptoms of RLS. No single medicine is helpful in all persons with RLS. It may take several changes in medicines and dosages to find the best approach.