do I have rls

[Markthefence]

I’m not sure if I have rls but every time I sit I can’t stop my feet and lower legs moving it’s also just as bad when I’m in bed it’s been like this for quite a while and can be really annoying

[Hidden]

You can check by comparing your symptoms to the RLS diagnostic criteria.

Here's a link to them

irlssg.org/diagnostic-criteria

[Joolsg]

What meds are you currently taking including all OTC meds? Anti depressants and anti histamines & cough & cold meds can trigger RLS. Low brain iron is another major trigger.

[cjouelle]

Is it the case that your feet and legs are moving involuntarily, and that you cannot control this? Or is it the case that you feel tension and discomfort in your feet and legs causing you to constantly need to actively move them?

[Mum007 in reply to cjouelle]

I compare mine to an itch that you are trying not to scratch but can’t help yourself. You feel like if you don’t move your legs you will go mad. You just want to rid yourself of that feeling or you will scream.

[Mattly in reply to cjouelle]

When I hear people talking about involuntary movements, to me (not a clinician!) that's not RLS, it's more likely Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) or something of the like. With RLS, even if you feel absolutely compelled to move by the discomfort, it's still voluntary movement.

[trishiapp28]

Just to add to the discussion of symptoms...

I get this awful build up of pressure in my feet ( sometimes arms) and it develops into this uncomfortable feeling that I cannot describe . It only goes away if I move my legs and feet ( stretching helps) but then the ‘build up’ comes back and it’s rinse & repeat.

Thankfully, magnesium 30mins before bed is helping enormously and I’m currently almost symptoms free. 🤞

[Doversoul]

I think the honest answer is it may be. The symptoms checker will be a guide, but referral to an Neurologist with experience of RLS would be where you will get confirmation. A Neurologist will check out your symptoms thoroughly - Parkinson, PLMD, Motor neuron and multiple sclerosis before diagnosing RLS.

The RLS Uk web site has a work sheet/daily record sheet you can download and make use of. You use it to record the symptoms you are suffering during a 24hr period. Noting sleep issues and medications taken. This record(s) will be useful to you when meeting with the GP and Neurologist to explain how the symptoms are affecting your daily life and sleep.

[ACRELANE in reply to Doversoul]

I would be interested in the daily record sheet but can't find it on the website. Can you narrow it down for me please?

[Kaarina Administrator in reply to ACRELANE]

Here is the link: rls-uk.org/rls-monitor

[Doversoul]

Hi - you need to access the RLS UK web site , and under the heading 'About RLS' and a sub heading RLS Monitor, that is what you need with directions on how to make use of it. Take care

[Kaarina Administrator in reply to Doversoul]

Thank you Doversoul. You provided very clear instructions on how to access the RLS Monitor. I have just added added the link above to make it really easy.