RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME

Mrs.Rosamma Joseph
Page No. 64-68

Restless legs syndrome, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a common condition of the nervous
system that causes an overwhelming, irresistible urge to move the legs. The symptoms typically
occur while sitting or lying down. It generally worsens with age and can disrupt sleep. The main
symptom is a nearly irresistible urge to move the legs. The sensations in the legs include aching
throbbing, pulling, itching, crawling, or creeping. Based on cause it may be primary or secondary.
When the cause is not known it is classified as primary and if the condition occurs as a result of
preexisting disease conditions like iron deficiency anemia, chronic kidney disease, diabetes etc. it is
classified as secondary. Obesity, stress, excessive intake of caffeine, intake of medications like
antidepressants, antipsychotics, lithium etc may act as triggers. While the cause is not known in
most of the cases, a genetic predisposition is found in many cases. The diagnosis is based on the
presence of symptoms like an urge to move the limbs with or without sensations, improvement with
activity, worsening at rest and worsening in the evening or night. Treatment includes solving the
underlying problem, lifestyle changes like stopping alcohol and tobacco, and sleep hygiene and
medications like levodopa or a dopamine agonist. The associated comorbidities are cardiovascular
diseases, sleep apnea and ADHD.
Keywords: Restless leg syndrome, sleep, types, causes, treatment, diagnosis.