Is Restless Legs Syndrome real? How is it treated?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is one of the most common movement disorders, affecting about 5 to 10 percent of the general population. Clinical criteria established by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group include a set of four symptoms that establish the diagnosis of RLS: (1) a desire to move the limbs, often associated with unpleasant sensations; (2) restlessness: (3) worsening of symptoms at rest and at least temporary relief with movement; and (4) worsening of symptoms in the evening or night. The cause is unknown; there is a genetic component but it is not strong. Some reports of abnormalities in iron metabolism have appeared, and iron supplements will help in iron-deficient patients. Drug therapy may be with dopamine agonists some of which are also used for Parkinson’s disease: gabapentin, pramipexole dihydrochloride, carbidopa/levodopa, ropinirole hydrochloride . These drugs have side effects of some concern, so you must follow your health care provider’s advice ca
