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Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome is a disorder that can have huge implications of sleep. In restless legs syndrome, discomfort in the legs gives rise to an irresistible urge to move the legs, temporarily relieving the discomfort. People use many different words to describe these feelings including “pins and needles,” “itchy,” “achy,” and “creepy-crawly” sensations. These sensations are not painful but are uncomfortable to a point where leg movement to relieve the sensation is uncontrollable. Although rare, occasionally people may experience these symptoms in the arms also. 

The symptoms of restless legs syndrome become worse at rest, especially at night. The constant urge to move the legs interferes with sleep, leading to insomnia. Usually the symptoms worsen over time. Occasionally the disorder can become severe enough to cause symptoms during movement as well as rest.

The cause of restless legs syndrome is unknown. However, some diseases cause a higher risk of developing restless legs syndrome. These diseases are iron-deficiency anemia and peripheral neuropathy. Anemia refers to a blood count and hemoglobin level (the protein that uses iron to carry oxygen in the blood) that is too low. Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the small nerves in the arms and legs; it is most commonly caused by diabetes. Pregnant women may also experience these symptoms, and they often resolve in the later stages of pregnancy. Cigarette smoking, alcohol, caffeine, and several drugs (lithium, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and several others) have been linked to restless legs syndrome. While smoking, alcohol and caffeine should be avoided, prescription medications should not be stopped without first discussing your symptoms and medical history with a doctor. Both males and females are affected, and restless leg syndrome may be inherited (passed down through families).

Many people with restless legs syndrome also experience periodic leg movements. Periodic leg movement disorder is characterized by frequent, involuntary jerking of leg muscles that may occur while sleeping or during rest.

Restless legs syndrome and periodic leg movement disorder greatly impact sleep and can lead to insomnia. If you are experiencing these symptoms, having difficulty sleeping or experiencing excess daytime fatigue, make an appointment with a physician at an insomnia treatment center in Chicago. The doctors at the Advanced Center for Specialty Care can diagnose can offer treatment options after diagnosing the condition, which may include sleep disorder testing at a Chicago Sleep Diagnostics location. Sleep diagnostics has sleep testing facilities located in luxurious hotel suites located in Chicago and throughout the suburbs. Traditional sleep labs were located in hospitals or storefront buildings, where it is often difficult to sleep comfortably. Checking into a hotel creates a secure, relaxed atmosphere essential for a good nights sleep.
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