Specialist Advice — 9 minutes
What is restless legs syndrome (RLS)?
As one of the abnormal movements that disrupt the process of falling asleep or sleeping, restless legs syndrome (RLS) is characterized by a feeling of discomfort in the legs and sometimes the arms (itching, electric shock, pain, tingling, etc.) when sitting or lying down. The person has an uncontrollable urge to move their legs, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. Over time, sleep deprivation leads to daytime fatigue and drowsiness.
Approximately 10% of Canadians are believed to suffer from RLS, but less than 3% require medication to treat it. Most of them also have periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS), meaning that they move their legs (and sometimes arms) involuntarily during sleep. RLS can occur at any age, in particular over the age of 50, and is especially common in women, who are affected at twice the rate of men.[1]
Treatment is especially indicated when the symptoms cause prolonged insomnia multiple times per week.
If the RLS is not hereditary, the doctor must address the cause of the syndrome. For example, they may prescribe supplements for iron or folic acid deficiency, substitute a medication that triggered the RLS, or treat the disease that is causing the syndrome.
If the cause of the syndrome cannot be treated, several treatments are available to relieve RLS and encourage sleep, with or without medication. When symptoms are mild or moderate, changing certain lifestyle habits can reduce their intensity or frequency, such as regular exercise (cycling, walking, etc.), adopting good sleep hygiene and avoiding caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. It is also advisable to reduce stress as much as possible by engaging in calming activities such as meditation, yoga, soothing music and relaxation.
