Newbie... questions!

[smallpurplecat]

Hi all,

I hope you don’t mind me asking for advice as a new member...

I am 44 and have developed strange sensations in my legs over the last 6 months.

First it just seemed to be burning feet - the soles - which starts early evening and goes on all night. It is often still there in the morning but seems to disappear by mid morning.

Now accompanying this is an achey, crampy feeling - all lower leg. Yesterday was the worst it’s been - started around 6pm and I just gave up and went to bed. I am waking through the night and early in the morning.

I saw my GP last week who mentioned RLS and is sending me for blood tests.

When I read about the symptoms, some of what I am experiencing seems to match... My legs don’t feel restless as such, but I want to move them all the time to try and get comfortable and cool them.

Can anyone relate? Thoughts? Thanks.

[Hidden]

Hi, the diagnosis of primary RLS is made by symptoms only. There is no single test for it. Secondary RLS can be caused by other conditions such as anaemia, kidney failure and others.

The blood tests your Dr took are probably to eliminate other causes of your symptoms.

If they come back negative, then it is likely you have primary (or idiopathic RLS).

If you have ALL of the following then you have RLS

Uncomfortable sensations in your legs.

An irresistable urge to move your legs, this is THE main symptom

The sensations occur when you stay still for sometime

They are relieved when you move

They occur mainly in the evening, particularly when you lie down to sleep.

Hopefully you will get your blood results soon

Keep visiting this site as it us a good source of information. Your GP may have heard of RLS, but most drs aren't very knowledgeable about how to treat it. If it does appear to be primary RLS it would be best if you were referred to a neurology specialist.

I suggest that you don't accept any prescription for medication for RLS that your GP might try to give you before finding out more for yourself about treatment from this site. This is quite important!

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Manerva i think the criteria for RLS is the same symptoms for Primary or Secondary RLS. Yes the tests can see if there is a underlying condition going on.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Yes sorry, I didn't make that clear