Restless legs syndrome

Restless legs syndrome is a disorder related to sensation and movement. People with RLS have an unpleasant feeling or sensation in parts of their bodies when they lie down to sleep. Most people also have a very strong urge to move. And moving sometimes makes them feel better. But all this movement makes it hard or impossible to get enough sleep.

RLS usually affects the legs. But it can cause unpleasant feelings in the arms, torso, or even a phantom limb. A phantom limb is the part of a limb that has been amputated.

When you don't get enough sleep, you may start to have problems getting things done during the day because you're so tired. You may also be sleepy or have trouble concentrating. So it's important to see your doctor and get help to manage your symptoms.

The main symptom of RLS is a strong urge to move because of uncomfortable or painful sensations. These feelings usually affect the legs. But they can also affect the arms or torso.

Some people describe the sensations as aching, creeping, crawling, or prickling. And some people also have jerking leg movements. Symptoms usually start about 15 minutes after you lie down to sleep or to relax. They can also occur when you haven't moved for a long time, such as when riding in a car or airplane.

One of the hardest things about having RLS is getting to the diagnosis. Often doctors don't ask about sleep or don't ask about the symptoms of restless legs. If you're not sleeping well, or if you think you may have RLS, tell your doctor.

Your doctor will talk with you about your symptoms to make sure that the feelings you describe are typical of RLS and aren't caused by some other problem.

You may have blood tests to rule out other problems that could be causing your symptoms. In some cases, the doctor may order tests of your nerves to be sure there is no nerve damage. Your doctor may also order a sleep study called a polysomnography. This test records how often your legs jerk or move while you sleep.

If your RLS symptoms are mild, a few lifestyle changes may be enough to control them. You may find it helpful to:

• Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine.
• Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable. Use it only for sleeping, not for watching TV.
• Get regular exercise.
• Massage the leg or the arm, or use heat or ice packs.

When symptoms are more severe, medicines may help control the urge to move and help you sleep. There are different types of medicine, and you may have to try a few to find the one that works best.

There are ways to improve your symptoms of restless legs syndrome at home. Some things you can try include:

• Exercising regularly.
• Using heat or cold.
• Keeping your bedroom cool, quiet, and comfortable. Use it only for sleeping, not for watching TV.
• Stretching and massage.