Don't ignore symptoms that keep you awake
"Everyone has an occasional restless night, but frequent sleep problems shouldn't be ignored," says Christopher K. Darnall, MD, Neurology at ARC Four Points. "If you feel a strong urge to move your legs while resting, you may have restless legs syndrome. This common condition can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to poor sleep and daytime fatigue. The good news is that effective treatment is available."
What is restless legs syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition that causes an uncomfortable sensation in the legs and a strong urge to move them. Symptoms usually occur while sitting or lying down and are often worse in the evening or at night.
What are the symptoms of restless legs syndrome?
People with RLS experience symptoms in different ways. Common symptoms include:
- An uncomfortable sensation in the legs, such as tingling, crawling, pulling, or aching. Not painful, just uncomfortable
- A strong urge to move your legs
- Temporary relief with movement
- Symptoms that become worse in the evening or at night
- Disrupted sleep or difficulty falling asleep
- Daytime tiredness caused by sleep deprivation
Some people also experience repetitive movement of their legs during sleep, which can further interrupt sleep quality.
When should you see a doctor?
If your symptoms happen regularly, interfere with your sleep, or affect your daily life, it's time to see a neurologist or advanced practice clinician (APC). A sleep medicine specialist can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether RLS or another underlying condition is responsible.
"There isn't a single test for restless legs syndrome," says Dr. Darnall. "Your doctor diagnoses it by talking with you about your symptoms, reviewing your medical history, and doing a physical exam. Blood tests or other tests may be ordered to look for conditions, such as low iron levels or medications, that can contribute to RLS."
How is restless legs syndrome treated?
Treatment depends on the causes of your symptoms. If an underlying condition is identified, treating it may improve your RLS.
Your neurologist or APC may recommend:
- Lifestyle changes to improve sleep
- Treating an underlying medical condition
- Adjusting a current medication, if appropriate
- Prescription medication to reduce symptoms
The goal of treatment is to reduce discomfort, improve sleep, and help you feel more rested during the day.
About ARC Neurology Sleep Medicine
ARC Neurology Sleep Medicine specialists diagnose and treat an extensive range of sleep conditions including sleep apnea, hypersomnia, parasomnia, circadian disorders, and insomnia. They care for patients 18 and older and focus on delivering personalized care to restore and support your sleep.
Book an appointment today
Dr. Darnall has Fellowships in Clinical Neurophysiology and Sleep Medicine from the University of Texas Health Science Center Houston. He is accepting new patients ages 18 and older at ARC Four Points in Austin. To make an appointment, use ARC MyChart or call 512-272-4636 (512-ARC-INFO) and choose option "1".