What is Restless Legs Syndrome?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, usually because of an uncomfortable sensation. It typically happens late in the day or during the night. Moving the legs eases the unpleasant feeling temporarily. 

Restless legs syndrome can begin at any age and generally worsens in later life. It can disrupt sleep, which interferes with daily activities.

Diagnosis of RLS is based completely on a clinical history and typically requires four core features of the described symptoms: an uncomfortable urge to move the legs, with or without uncomfortable leg sensations; temporary relief by movement; symptoms occurring solely or predominantly at rest; and nocturnal worsening of symptoms.

About 50% of patients with RLS will have a positive family history , but this is not necessary for the diagnosis.

RLS has been linked to deficient iron stores and dopaminergic neurotransmission in the brain and is more common in patients with Parkinson’s disease , MS , epilepsy, and in those with chronic renal insufficiency.

Iron deficiency, or even low normal body iron stores, may worsen or precipitate symptoms and therefore measuring a serum ferritin should be considered early in all patients with such symptoms , with iron replacement therapy begun if serum ferritin values are less than 50 mcg/L.Medications can also be used which increase dopamine levels in the brain as well as other drugs which are used to treat neuropathic pain.

The above article was written by Dr Soumit Singhai (Dementia Specialist based at 25 Harley Street in London)