What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition characterised by an uncomfortable, often unpleasant sensation in the legs together with an irresistible urge to move them, typically worsening in the evening and at rest.
What Are the Symptoms?
- A crawling, tingling, or pulling sensation deep in the legs
- An urge to move the legs that provides temporary relief
- Symptoms that worsen in the evening or at night
- Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
- Involuntary, periodic leg movements during sleep
Relationship with Sleep Apnea
Restless leg syndrome frequently coexists with sleep apnea, and both conditions can compound each other's effect on sleep quality. Patients presenting with unexplained sleep disruption should be evaluated for both conditions together.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency is one of the most common and treatable causes of restless leg syndrome. Blood ferritin levels are checked, and iron supplementation is prescribed when levels are low.
Neurological Causes
In some patients, restless leg syndrome is associated with underlying neurological or metabolic conditions requiring dedicated evaluation and, when appropriate, medication.
A thorough diagnostic work-up, including assessment for accompanying sleep apnea, allows treatment to be tailored to the underlying cause for a lasting improvement in sleep quality.
Take a sleep apnea test at your own home, without going to a hospital.
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