Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological disorder that causes an irresistible urge to move your legs, usually at night or when you're at rest. The sensation can be described as an unpleasant crawling, itching, pulling, or aching feeling in your legs. Moving your legs usually relieves the discomfort, but the urge to move can come back soon after you stop.


Things you must know about restless leg syndrome


Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome

The main symptom of restless leg syndrome is an urge to move your legs, especially when you're at rest, such as sitting or lying down. The urge to move is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in your legs, such as:

  • Crawling
  • Itching
  • Pulling
  • Aching

These sensations usually improve with movement, but they may come back soon after you stop moving.


Other symptoms of restless leg syndrome may include:

  • Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
  • Jerking or kicking of your legs during sleep (periodic limb movements of sleep)
  • Restlessness in other parts of your body, such as your arms

Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome

The exact cause of restless leg syndrome is unknown, but several factors may contribute to it, including:

  • Iron deficiency: Low iron levels in your blood (iron deficiency anemia) can cause or worsen restless leg syndrome.
  • Pregnancy: Many women experience restless leg syndrome during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Symptoms usually improve after childbirth.
  • Certain medical conditions: Restless leg syndrome can be associated with other medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, neuropathy (nerve damage), kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and some anti-nausea medications, can cause or worsen restless leg syndrome.
  • Family history: Restless leg syndrome can run in families.

Diagnosis of Restless Legs Syndrome

There is no specific test to diagnose restless leg syndrome. Your doctor will likely diagnose the condition based on your symptoms and a physical examination. They may also ask you about your medical history and any medications you are taking.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend tests to rule out other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as blood tests to check for iron deficiency or a sleep study to look for periodic limb movements of sleep.


Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome

There is no cure for restless leg syndrome, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms and improve your sleep. Treatment for restless leg syndrome typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause, if possible.


Here are some common treatment options:

  • Iron therapy: If you have iron deficiency, iron supplements can help improve your symptoms.
  • Medication: Medications such as dopamine agonists, levodopa, and alpha-2 delta ligands can help improve the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
  • Movement: Moving your legs, such as walking or stretching, can help relieve the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
  • Massage: Massaging your legs before bed can help relax your muscles and improve your sleep.
  • Warm baths: Taking a warm bath before bed can help relax your muscles and improve your sleep.
  • Good sleep hygiene: Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, can help improve your sleep quality.

If you think you may have restless leg syndrome, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve your symptoms and prevent complications.