Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment
Restless leg syndrome causes an uncomfortable, often irresistible urge to move your legs, especially in the evening when you try to relax or fall asleep. The sleep specialists at Sleep Health MD diagnose and treat restless leg syndrome for patients in Santa Cruz, Freedom, Sunnyvale, and Monterey so you can rest comfortably again.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Restless leg syndrome (RLS), also called Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological condition that causes uncontrollable urges to move the legs. The urges usually happen in the evening or at night while sitting or lying down, and moving the legs brings temporary relief. Because symptoms peak at bedtime, RLS often interrupts sleep and leads to daytime drowsiness.
What Symptoms Does Restless Leg Syndrome Cause?
Patients describe RLS sensations as aching, crawling, creeping, pulling, throbbing, or itching deep within the legs. Symptoms typically:
- Begin during periods of rest or inactivity
- Worsen in the evening and at night
- Improve temporarily with walking, stretching, or moving the legs
- Make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep
Many people with RLS also have involuntary leg twitches during sleep, known as periodic limb movement disorder.
What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?
In many cases, no specific cause is identified. Researchers believe an imbalance of dopamine, a brain chemical that helps control muscle movement, plays a role, and RLS often runs in families. Other contributing factors include:
- Low iron levels
- Pregnancy, especially in the third trimester
- Kidney disease and peripheral neuropathy
- Certain medications, such as some antihistamines, antidepressants, and anti-nausea drugs
- Caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
What Complications Can Restless Leg Syndrome Cause?
While RLS itself is not dangerous, the sleep disruption it causes can be significant. Difficulty staying asleep can lead to daytime fatigue, excessive napping, and insomnia. Over time, poor sleep can contribute to depression, trouble concentrating, and excessive daytime sleepiness.
How Is Restless Leg Syndrome Diagnosed?
RLS is diagnosed through a clinical evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and medications. Your provider may order blood tests to check iron levels. A sleep study is not always needed but may be recommended if periodic limb movements or sleep apnea are suspected.
How Is Restless Leg Syndrome Treated?
RLS is usually treated with lifestyle changes, medication, or both. Helpful lifestyle adjustments include:
- Regular, moderate exercise
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
- Following a consistent sleep schedule
- Using warm or cool packs and taking warm baths
- Leg massage and stretching before bed
When medication is needed, your provider may consider iron supplementation, dopamine-related medications, alpha-2-delta ligands, or other prescriptions based on your symptoms and health history. Regular follow-up helps make sure treatment stays effective. Learn about our pediatric sleep services for children with RLS symptoms, or explore all conditions we treat.
Restless Leg Syndrome Treatment FAQs
What does restless leg syndrome feel like?
People describe RLS as an aching, crawling, creeping, throbbing, or itching sensation in the legs, along with a strong urge to move them.
Why are RLS symptoms worse at night?
RLS symptoms follow a daily rhythm and typically worsen in the evening and at night, especially when you’re resting.
Can low iron cause restless leg syndrome?
Yes. Low iron stores are a common contributing factor, and correcting iron deficiency can reduce symptoms.
Is restless leg syndrome the same as periodic limb movement disorder?
No, but they are closely related. RLS occurs while awake, while periodic limb movements happen during sleep. Many people have both.
Can pregnancy cause restless leg syndrome?
Yes. RLS is common during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, and often improves after delivery.
Do I need a sleep study for RLS?
Usually not. RLS is diagnosed based on symptoms, though a sleep study may be recommended to check for related conditions.
How do I schedule an evaluation?
Call (844) 387-5337 or request an appointment online with Sleep Health MD.
Find Relief From Restless Legs
Don’t let restless legs keep you up at night. Call (844) 387-5337 or request an appointment online to see a Sleep Health MD sleep specialist.