Experiences with
Restless legs syndromeSymptoms of restless legs syndrome
The main symptom of restless legs syndrome is an overwhelming urge to move your legs.
It can also cause an unpleasant crawling or creeping sensation in the feet, calves and thighs.
The sensation is often worse in the evening or at night. Occasionally, the arms are affected, too.
Restless legs syndrome is also associated with involuntary jerking of the legs and arms, known as periodic limb movements (PLM).
Some people have the symptoms of restless legs syndrome occasionally, while others have them every day.
The symptoms can vary from mild to severe. In severe cases, restless legs syndrome can be very distressing and disrupt a person's daily activities.
Treating restless legs syndrome
Mild cases of restless legs syndrome that are not linked to an underlying health condition may not require any treatment, other than making a few lifestyle changes.
These include:
- tips for how to get to sleep (for example, following a regular bedtime ritual, sleeping regular hours, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine late at night)
- quitting smoking if you smoke
- exercising regularly during the daytime
If your symptoms are more severe, you may need medication to regulate the levels of dopamine and iron in your body.
If restless legs syndrome is caused by iron deficiency anaemia, iron supplements may be all that's needed to treat the symptoms.
SymptomsMedical treatmentsThe main symptom of restless legs syndrome is an overwhelming urge to move your legs. You might also have strange sensations in your legs.
Lifestyle changes like getting plenty of sleep and exercise can help with restless legs syndrome. Medicines may be needed in more severe cases.
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HealthUnlocked contains information from NHS Digital, licensed under the current version of the Open Government Licence
