What causes PLMD?
The exact cause of PLMD is unknown. PLMD shares many underlying factors with restless legs syndrome, such as a hereditary link, iron deficiency anemia, nerve problems, poor blood circulation in the legs, kidney disorders, and others. However, the two conditions are generally seen as being related rather than as causing one another. What are the symptoms of PLMD? People with PLMD have trouble falling or staying asleep (insomnia) or feel sleepy during the day because the movements disrupt their sleep. These movements usually are in the legs and occur in some type of pattern. Although a person often is not fully awakened by these movements, they interfere with normal sleep cycles. A bed partner’s sleep may also be disrupted. How is PLMD diagnosed? PLMD is diagnosed with a medical history, often including a sleep history from a bed partner, and a physical exam. A sleep study is usually required to detect the movements. A sleep study also can identify other conditions that may be causing sy
