Restless Legs, Restless Nights

Maybe you never thought anything of it. Maybe your doctor couldn't find anything wrong - but something's not right. Does this sound familiar?

• Do you have an unpleasant or creepy-crawly sensation in your legs?
• Do you have a strong urge to move your legs when you sit or lie down?
• Does moving your legs help you feel better?
• Are these symptoms worse at night?
• Does your partner tell you that you jerk your legs in your sleep?

You may have a condition called restless legs syndrome (RLS), a disorder marked by unpleasant sensations with an urge to move when you are at rest. This problem can be serious because it can interfere with a good night's sleep. Your job, your relationships, your quality of life may suffer as a consequence of not getting enough sleep.

As many as 12 million Americans may have it. The condition can affect both genders; however, it seems slightly higher in women. Most people who develop it are often middle-aged or older. The severity tends to worsen with age.

No one is sure what causes RLS; however, a family history seems to play a role in some cases. The condition does not have a cure. Sometimes RLS may be related to other problems such as:

• Low levels of iron
• Conditions like kidney failure, Parkinson's disease, diabetes and peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)
• Pregnancy, especially in the last trimester

Certain medications may worsen your symptoms. They include drugs for:

• Nausea
• Seizures
• Psychotic disorders
• Insomnia
• Colds and allergies

Only your doctor can diagnose you and rule out other problems. Making lifestyle changes can help with your symptoms:

• Take baths and try massages before bed.
• Do yoga or other types of meditation.
• Exercise.
• Reduce caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. These may make your RLS worse or trigger symptoms.
• Set a regular sleep schedule.
• Do activities that help take your mind off your RLS.

There are also medications that you can take if the problem is severe. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms.

Related Articles Tai Chi Do Sleepless Nights Ruin Your Day? Tips for a Good Night's Sleep

External Sources The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke The Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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