I thank the community for already being of help to me

[Maude789]

I learned valuable information by reading the posts of others. Do we know how common RLS is and does it worsen, untreated, with age?

[Nettles68]

Hello Maude, lovely to hear from you 😊

RLS is quite common.

I think I am correct in saying it effects 7 to 10% of the U. S poulation.

However a much smaller percentage has it badly enough to need medication.

RLS is known to get worse with age in some cases even with treatment.

I see from your other post you have been prescribed Ropinirole a dopamine agonist and this is giving you effective relief. This is good to hear but please do be aware that Ropinirole can cause over time a worsening of symptoms, this is called 'augmentation'.

Augmentation can be very difficult to deal with so please do read up about augmentation on Ropinirole so that you are aware of the signs and what to do if it develops.

Others with much more experience than I have and a better way of explaining things than I have will be along shortly to advise I'm sure 😊

You have come to the right place for advice and support 🤗

[Joolsg]

It's very common, affecting 12 million in the USA and 1 million in the UK. Around 20% of those will have SEVERE RLS and will need treatment. It's the most common neurological disease in the world and the most poorly treated due to total lack of medical training on the subject.And yes, it's usually progressive and usually worsens with age.