Diseases
restless leg syndrome
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also called Willis-Ekbom Disease, causes unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them. Symptoms commonly occur in the late afternoon or evening hours, and are often most severe at night when a person is resting, such as sitting or lying in bed.
Symptoms
- sensations that begin while resting
- relief with movement.
- worsening of symptoms in the evening.
- nighttime leg twitching.
Causes
- heredity
- often, there's no known cause for rls. researchers suspect the condition may be caused by an imbalance of the brain chemical dopamine, which sends messages to control muscle movement.
- pregnancy
Risk factors
- peripheral neuropathy.
- iron deficiency
- kidney failure.
Diagnosis
- physical exam
- medical history
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is restless leg syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also called Willis-Ekbom Disease, causes unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them. Symptoms commonly occur in the late afternoon or evening hours, and are often most severe at night when a person is resting, such as sitting or lying in bed.
What are the symptoms of restless leg syndrome?
sensations that begin while resting, relief with movement., worsening of symptoms in the evening., nighttime leg twitching.
What causes restless leg syndrome?
heredity; often, there's no known cause for rls. researchers suspect the condition may be caused by an imbalance of the brain chemical dopamine, which sends messages to control muscle movement.; pregnancy
Which medicines are used for restless leg syndrome?
gabapentin, pramipexole, ropinirole
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.