Uncontrolled Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) Can Make Your Days and Nights Miserable
If you have an irresistible urge to move your legs, especially at night, it could be a sign you’re living with RLS
What is RLS?
RLS is a neurological disorder characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an overwhelming need to move them. RLS is more than just an urge to move your legs. Symptoms often happen at night. Sometimes these symptoms interrupt sleep.
Common RLS Symptoms
People with RLS often experience a range of symptoms, such as
- Uncomfortable sensations that occur most often in the legs. People with RLS may describe symptoms as itching, pulling, gnawing, and the creepy-crawlies. Symptoms typically worsen at night
- Discomfort that may be relieved by movement. This leads many patients to pace, kick, or turn frequently in bed, which can disturb sleep
- Sleep disturbance may have an even broader impact on a patient’s life
Aching
Throbbing
Crawling Under Skin
Itching
What will your healthcare provider look for?
Your healthcare provider will evaluate you using the following criteria to determine if you have RLS:
- An irresistible urge to move your legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, crawling, or aching.
- Symptoms that begin or intensify during periods of rest or inactivity.
- Relief from symptoms, either partial or complete, when you move, stretch, or exercise the affected limbs.
- Symptoms that worsen or only occur in the evening or at night.
- Symptoms that are not primarily caused by another medical condition.
Your doctor will carefully assess these and other symptoms, and may ask about your medical history, medications that you are taking, sleep patterns, and any family history of RLS. They might also recommend additional tests to rule out other conditions and to help make a diagnosis.
These questions are not intended as a medical diagnosis. Talk to your healthcare provider and together determine next steps and, if appropriate, discuss your treatment options.
Speak With Your Doctor
If you think you may have RLS, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options tailored to your needs. Remember: You’re not alone. Millions of people live with RLS, and help is available.
If You Have Been Diagnosed With RLS, Don’t Let It Control Your Life
While there’s no cure for RLS, treatments are available. From lifestyle changes to medications, options exist to help manage your symptoms.
Take the Next Step.