Seeing a neurologist for RLS?

[Micafe]

I believe RLS is a neurological disease so would it be a good idea to see a neurologist? ?

[Hidden]

You are correct RLS is a neurological condition. It depends if the neurologist is experienced with treating RLS. there are many neuro's that dont have that knowledge. I live in the UK, and i have never seen a neuro, my GP takes care of my RLS and meds.

[Hidden]

Yes RLS is a neurological disease and in is classified as a "sleep movement" disorder (ICD-11). Most people see a neurologist if they need to see a specialist. If a sleep disorder is also suspected (RLS is associated with other sleep disorders) then some people are referred to a sleep specialist.

General neurologists tend not be very knowledgable about RLS however and in some cases it is no great advantage to see a neurologist unless you have a specific treatment in mind, which your Primary Care Practitioner (PCP) can't deal with.

In the US you also have a few well reputed RLS experts which would be the best to consult, but it depends on whereabouts you live and how you fund your care. I forget where they all are, but Berkeley, Southern California, Boston and Baltimore come to mind.

A PCP can prescribe first line medical treatments for RLS, but there's no 100% guarantee that these will work. A specialist can prscribe a wider choice of treatments, but again no 100% guarantee.

It does depend on what your circumstamces as to what's the best option for you.

There are also non-medical options that can be tried.

[marsha2306]

I believe it’s a must

[divasmom8]

Yes absolutely! However, please look for a Neurologist that specializes in “Movement Disorders“, such as Parkinson’s and Dystonia. I have seen neurologists that had very little knowledge of RLS. I have had excellent treatment from specialty neurologists. They are well versed in RLS and know that prescribing Dopamine agonists is the worst thing for RLS. Regular neurologists will prescribe RLS medications that make symptoms far worse in the long run. Good luck!

[Micafe in reply to divasmom8]

Thank you so much!!. You don't say if you have RLS. If you do, have your neurologists' treatments helped with it?

I think I'll try to find a neurologist like the one you mention.

☺

[divasmom8 in reply to Micafe]

Yes I do have RLS, it has become increasingly worse over the last 20 years. I have seen several neurologists over the years, they promised life changing medications (Neupro patch, Mirapex and Requip) but they all increased my symptoms to the point of having it in my entire body 24/7. My

Movement Disorder Neurologist weaned me off all the Dopamine drugs and eventually prescribed small dose Methadone, which Has helped me immensely the past 5 years, not requiring an increase in dose. A Neurologist not specializing n movement disorders will not prescribe Methadone, as they don’t have the knowledge that a specialist will have. Wishing you

Much success in your search for a knowledgeable Neurologist.

[Micafe in reply to divasmom8]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate your help.. 😊

[Seaux]

Yes, but it is also highly affected by inflammation. I suggest you see not only a neurologist but also a holistic doctor who can see if inflammation is part of the problem and what is causing the inflammation. This- inflammation- is not part of the traditional medical training of doctors/ neurologists so traditional doctors may think including issues of inflammation is not necessary but......