What is restless leg syndrome (RLS) and periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)?
RLS is a nerve and brain disorder that results in an uncomfortable sensation in the legs, when sitting or lying still, that is only relieved by massaging the leg, moving the leg, or walking around. Symptoms are usually worse at night and can be disruptive to getting to sleep.
PLMD is related but different from RLS in that leg movements occur during sleep. Can be disruptive to sleep quality of a bed partner or even the patient if happens frequently. Often, RLS and PLMD are seen together but some patients have RLS without PLMD and vice versa.
What causes RLS/PLMD?
The cause of these leg movement disorders can be multifaceted. Iron deficiency in certain aspects of the brain is considered at the foundation. There does seem to be genetics that predispose patients to the development of leg movement disorders. Other patients can experience restless legs because chronic medical conditions or taking certain medications, such as antihistamines or antidepressants.
RLS/PLMD can also be aggravated by lifestyle choices. Alcohol consumption, stress, caffeine intake, and nicotine can all make the symptoms worse.
What are the symptoms of RLS/PLMD?
RLS is often distinguished by dull, aching pain in the legs that is relieved by movement. Other sensations that might be felt include burning, itching, and throbbing in one or both legs. The constant movement of the legs for relief can lead to poor quality or limited sleep and can increase daytime drowsiness for patients.
PLMD is usually experienced more by a patient’s bed partner. Patient will notice unrefreshing sleep from the leg movements keeping the patient in light sleep the majority of the night.
How is RLS/PLMD diagnosed?
RLS is diagnosis by your symptoms provided during a visit with your provider. Additional testing can be done to evaluate for aggravating factors.
PLMD can be suggested by what a patient’s bed partner has witness and their symptoms of nonrestorative sleep, however, a sleep study is required to have objective evidence of excessive leg movement during sleep.
How is RLS/PLMD treated?
Symptom suppression is key as their is no “cure.” Identifying and correcting medical conditions (like systemic iron deficiency) or making simple medication changes can be helpful prior to the initiation of specific medicines for RLS/PLMD.
If you find restless legs are keeping you up at night, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about the symptoms and possible treatments available to you. To discuss your sleep concerns, call our West Lakes Sleep Center at (515) 875-9555.