RLS-UK Forum.
For the last three months I have suffered hand cramps which wake me every night while asleep. After a blood test which showed normal, my doctor concluded that it's RLS and prescribed Pramipexole.
Reading several articles on the subject including RLS-UK website, plus my partners father has RLS with very different symptoms. So I have my doubts.
Could anyone tell me if they suffers/ suffered from the same symptoms?
Frampton32
It sure doesn't sound like RLS.
All of the following must be true for a diagnosis of RLS: 1) The urge to move the legs and sometimes the arms 2) The onset or worsening of symptoms during periods of inactivity when lying down and sometimes when sitting 3) Symptoms occur or worsen in the evening or bedtime. They are usually dormant in the morning 4) Symptoms get better when walking or stretching as long as it is continued. 5) Can't be explained by another medical or behavioral condition.
Do you meet these conditions?
In any case you don't want to take pramipexole.
Many thanks Sue.
I have none of the symptoms you list and for the warning about Pramipexole.
My doubts are confirmed.
Kindest regards
Frampton32
Hello, Frampton32 - I had similar problems about 20 years ago and eventually was diagnosed with carpel tunnel syndrome. I had so much relief after my first surgery in my right wrist that I decided to have the left wrist done. I have not had any issues with either since my surgery. The only drawback has been a loss of strength in both hands but it has not caused any significant problems and the ability to sleep all night without the painful hand cramps was well worth it. At that time I already knew I had RLS and I don't remember any relationship between the RLS and the carpel tunnel. I hope this may be helpful in some way. Good luck. BarnGir1
Thank you for responding.
I suffered Carpal tunnel some years ago, it was linked to my profession. Its not Carpal tunnel has I know it.
Kindest regards
Glad you are getting some information that will help rule things out and eventually find a diagnosis and relief. I hope second opinion does the trick.
Thank you very much.Kindest regards
I would not start taking Pramipexole.Hand cramps are not a sign of RLS, although RLS can affect the hands. The sensation is not like cramps though. It's a horrible, worm like, irritating sensation and you HAVE to move and shake the hands to stop the sensations.
Are they worse at rest or at night? Does moving your hands around stop the feeling?
If not, I suspect something else is going on.
Possibly peripheral neuropathy. Or a B12 deficiency.
Ask for blood tests and a second opinion.
Don't take the Pramipexole. These are dangerous drugs that affect brain chemicals and receptors and experts no longer prescribe them because they cause high rates of Impulse Control Disorder and they worsen RLS in the overwhelming majority of patients.
Thanks for your reply.A second opinion is my next port of call.
Kindest regards
I have had that problem with my hands for about 35 yrs. I do have RLS that started later in life. I’ve never had a hand diagnosis but find that sugar has a big impact on my hands (also RLS). Try to remove sugars and see if it doesn’t improve. Also, make sure you are drinking plenty of water.
I pray you get some relief!
Many thanks for the info on sugars, I'll give it a try.Kindest regards
I have this too searing pains in the palms and shooting up and down my fingers, randomly not every night but, also in the daytime. I also wake up and I'm rubbing both hands together. Sometimes I am clapping them too. I have RLS and PLMD, maybe you have PLMD too. I do weird stuff all night long, sometimes I think I am the girl in The Omen cos my head is going up down and side to side and my whole body is thrashing about.
cramp?
2 nights with no restless legs 
RLS Hot Feet / Cramps
