Restless leg syndrome, or RLS, is a neurological condition that creates a feeling of needing to constantly move the legs. It can deprive you of sleep and make it difficult for you to relax no matter how tired you are. It is a relatively new condition and is often misdiagnosed or under diagnosed.
Symptoms
Burning, tingling or tugging sensations in the legs, as well as the urge to constantly move are common symptoms of RLS. These sensations can be mild, or they can be severe and cause pain. One distinctive sign is that lying down and trying to relax aggravates the condition.
Significance
Many patients with RLS find that their symptoms are worse at night, and may even cause insomnia. This can lead to daytime fatigue and exhaustion. You may have trouble concentrating and remembering. This can put a strain on your job, family relations and daily activities.
Complications
Severe cases of RLS occur when the above symptoms are present more then twice per week and they significantly disturb your sleep. Some RLS patients also develop Periodic Limb Movement in Sleep (PLMS) disorder. This condition causes uncontrollable leg twitching or jerking movements that occur every 20 to 30 seconds.
Causes
In most cases of RLS, the cause is unknown. Contributing factors may include genetics, anemia, kidney failure, neurological diseases and pregnancy. Some medications used for seizures and cold medications can also or make your symptoms worse.
Diagnosis
There are currently no laboratory tests to help diagnose this condition. Your physician will need a complete record of your symptoms, including what makes the symptoms worse, when symptoms tend to happen and how long the symptoms have been occurring.
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