Restless Legs Syndrome and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) affects eight percent of the American population to some degree. RLS is a consistent, uncomfortable feeling in the legs that can only be alleviated by moving the affected limbs. The feeling is present 24 hours a day, but is most noticeable when lying down to sleep at night. The constant need to move the legs results in fragmented, unrefreshing sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Symptoms of RLS                                                                                                                     

Restless legs syndrome can affect anyone, at any age, but tends to develop most often after age forty. The disorder runs in families, and has been linked to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.

Symptoms in adults most often include:                                                                                                 

 Unusual sensations in the legs, feet and arms, most often described

 as "creeping," "itching," or "pulling," that are rarely painful but hard     to ignore (they are not leg cramps)

 The appearance of being restless or "fidgety"

 Daytime sleepiness caused by frequently interrupted sleep.

Typically, the sensations get worse when the sufferer lies down, but some movement of the legs can give short, temporary relief.

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)                                                                                         

Eighty percent of people who have restless legs syndrome also suffer from PLMD, or periodic limb movement disorder. PLMD causes involuntary leg cramps, or jerking movements, that occur as often as every twenty seconds. The frequent awakening and disrupted rest associated with PLMD leg cramps causes excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue.

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Antidepressants, Stress, and Other Causes                                                                                            

Antidepressants, tranquillizers, calcium channel blockers, and over the counter cold medications can all make RLS symptoms worse. Stress and emotional distress also aggravate the condition.

Certain mineral deficiencies, most notably anemia and folate deficiencies, can cause restless legs syndrome. Pregnancy can also play a role: fifteen percent of pregnant women experience RLS symptoms, which usually clear up after giving birth.

RLS Treatment                                                                                                                                         

If the source of the disorder is mineral deficiencies, supplements of iron, vitamin B12 and folate may relieve symptoms. Consult your doctor before using supplements to treat RLS. Changes in antidepressants or other medication may also reduce symptoms.

Sleep hygiene is a series of behavioral changes designed to promote better sleep habits. Changes often include restricting caffeine and alcohol intake, two substances that can aggravate RLS.

No FDA-approved medication is available for restless leg syndrome, although products currently undergoing clinical trials include dopaminergic agents, sedatives, pain relievers, and anticonvulsants.