| Restless Legs Syndrome—What is it? |
| By Darien Simon, M.S. |
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The third most common sleep disorder, after insomnia and sleep apnea is called restless legs syndrome or RLS. RLS is characterized by unpleasant sensations in the feet and legs variously described as "prickly," "tingly," "creeping," "burning," "crawling," or "itching." These sensations are so persistent and strong they can only be relieved by frequent movement. During the day this can be merely annoying, but at night it contributes to insomnia, both interfering with falling asleep, and with staying asleep. While all forms of RLS are more common in people with Northern European ancestry, and the most severe forms of RLS are most common in the elderly, RLS can affect anyone at any age. RLS affects more women than men, and has been linked to pregnancy (especially in the last trimester), anemia, and diabetes.
Like insomnia, there are primary and secondary forms of RLS. Primary RLS is more common, but its possible causes are unknown, though it is more common in people who have a parent with RLS. Primary RLS usually lasts lifelong, with symptoms increasing in frequency and intensity, particularly if they began early in life (childhood or early adulthood), though in such early onset cases, the progression may be slower than in people who develop RLS later in life. People with milder forms of RLS may be symptom-free for prolonged periods, while severe forms may impact life every day and night. Secondary RLS is a symptom of another disorder or condition, sometimes a side-effect of a medication. The conditions or disorders than can cause RLS include iron deficiency, kidney failure, Parkinson’s, peripheral nerve damage, and rheumatoid arthritis. Medications or other substances that may cause or exacerbate RLS include antidepressants, antinausea or antiseizure drugs, caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. RLS that develops later in life is more likely to be from secondary than primary causes. |
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