Restless Limb Syndrome (RLS) is an irresistible urge to move the extremities associated with an unpleasant sensation (pain, discomfort, pulling, ache, tingling, creepy-crawly, bugs under the skin), worse at times of rest (sitting in a chair, in the car, at the movies, in bed before sleep onset), worse in the evening and relieved by movement of the affected body part. It is frequently associated with insomnia or daytime sleepiness. It may occur in up to 15% of the general population. CLICK HERE to take our Quiz now.
In primary RLS we do not know why a patient has it. More than half of patients with primary RLS have a family history of the condition. The risk of developing the condition is 3-6 times greater in patients who have an immediate relative with RLS.
In secondary RLS, there is usually an identifiable underlying medical cause.
Medical conditions associated with the condition include:
Medications may also cause or worsen RLS:
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The first step is to see your physician and rule-out an underlying medical condition known to be associated with RLS.
Behavioral changes may also help
Medical treatments include: