Understanding Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sleep-related neurological disorder that affects up to 15 percent of adults. The syndrome causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, most commonly while sleeping, that are temporarily relieved by movement.

“Although not a life-threatening condition, people with RLS may experience disrupted sleep, as well as difficulty falling and staying asleep which can greatly diminish their quality of life,” says Zachary Strumpf, MD , a pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine physician at University Hospitals. “Those with severe symptoms may also experience them during the day.” He shares more about how to recognize and treat the disorder.

What Causes RLS?

Restless legs syndrome can begin at any age, but it’s more common in older adults. More women are affected than men.

“The exact cause is unknown, but some research shows the condition is related to an imbalance of the brain chemical dopamine, which plays a role in muscle movement,” says Dr. Strumpf. “Some studies also suggest that low iron levels or genetics may be a factor, especially if the condition develops before age 40.”

RLS can also occur with other conditions, including pregnancy, diabetes, alcohol use disorder, kidney disease, spinal cord injuries and Parkinson’s disease.

Confirming a Diagnosis of Restless Legs

If you think you might have RLS, talk to your primary care doctor or a sleep medicine provider. They will take a complete medical history, perform a physical exam and ask you to describe your symptoms in detail. Additional testing may be done to rule out other conditions and a blood test may be done to check your iron levels.

If RLS or other sleep disorders are suspected, a comprehensive sleep evaluation by a trained sleep medicine provider, which may include an overnight sleep study, might be recommended.

Managing Symptoms With Lifestyle Changes

There is no cure for RLS, but symptoms can be managed with simple lifestyle changes. These include:

• Iron supplements. Iron deficiency is associated with RLS symptoms. If testing shows you have an iron deficiency, iron supplements may be prescribed. These should only be taken under the supervision of a physician.
• Dietary changes. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Eliminate or limit alcohol, caffeine and refined sugar as these have been linked to an increase in RLS symptoms.
• Don’t smoke. Nicotine in any form has been shown to increase RLS symptoms and disturb sleep.
• Develop coping strategies. Walking, stretching, warm baths, massage and deep breathing techniques can relax you and take your mind off of RLS sensations.
• Good sleep hygiene. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on the weekends. Keep your bedroom dark and cool and avoid all screens (cell phones, TV, video games) before bedtime.
• Hydrate. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

If symptoms are frequent or severe and lifestyle changes don’t provide relief, there are several medications that may help. Your doctor will work with you to find the right drug and the right dosage to best manage your symptoms.

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University Hospitals has a wide network of primary care and sleep medicine providers with the experience and advanced training to diagnose and treat a wide variety of sleep-related conditions, including restless legs syndrome.