Restless legs syndrome
About Restless legs syndrome
A change in brain chemistry causes a fidgety urge to move one's legs. This is a common cause of lost sleep. Symptoms are more severe at night or shortly after lying down. Older people, particularly women, are most likely to be affected. Iron deficiency causes restless legs by affecting chemistry in the brain. It can run in families. It is common in pregnancy and in kidney disease.Symptoms
Difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep, persistent leg movements during sleep hours, fidgeting or an urge to move the legs, abnormal sensation in the legs, aching or pain in the legs, bruising occurs in the night and is unexplained.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. A sleep study can demonstrate this problem. Blood test to check iron (`ferritin`) is useful.Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Iron supplements and medications are helpful. The medications used include: carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet), pramipexole (Mirapex). ropinirole (Requip), several others. For more information contact: Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation: (877)463-6757Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Psychiatry · Family Practice · Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry · Geriatric Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Restless legs syndrome.