Get relief for restless legs syndrome
If you feel a powerful urge to move your legs in the evening or while trying to sleep, you may have restless legs syndrome (RLS), a disorder of the nervous system. Restless legs syndrome can feel different to each person. Sensations range from itching or gnawing to prickling and tugging. Symptoms tend to be strongest at night and lead to disrupted sleep.
Symptoms of restless legs syndrome
RLS can affect both adults and children. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Overwhelming desire to move legs when resting
- Uncomfortable sensations in the legs like tingling, burning or cramping
- An increase in intensity of sensations in the evening
- Temporary relief from leg discomfort when moving or stretching
- Daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating and irritability
Causes of restless legs syndrome
RLS can have several causes, such as:
- Iron deficiency
- Genetics — if you have a family history of RLS, you may be more likely to experience it
- Pregnancy
- Over-the-counter or prescription medications — some can cause or worsen RLS
- An underlying condition, such as diabetes or kidney disease
Diagnosing and treating restless legs syndrome
If you suspect you have RLS, you may need to undergo a sleep study in one of MultiCare’s state-of-the-art sleep centers. Our specialists will review your study results and work with you to develop a treatment plan.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of RLS as well as your overall health. Common treatment options include:
- Iron replacement therapy. Increasing the body’s iron levels can alleviate RLS symptoms for some people. Iron supplementation can be administered orally or, in some cases, directly into the bloodstream through infusions. Always take iron under the supervision of a health care provider.
- Medications. Prescription medications, such as Mirapex (pramipexole) and Lyrica (pregabalin), are effective at controlling RLS symptoms. Your sleep specialist will discuss these options with you.
- Lifestyle changes. Some patients with mild cases of RLS can find relief through self-care practices, such as massaging the legs, applying hot or cold compresses, and avoiding caffeine, alcohol and nicotine.