Is restless legs syndrome related to ADHD?
Studies show some correlation between sleep disruption and ADHD and restless legs syndrome (RLS) and ADHD. With restless legs syndrome, there is a creeping, crawling sensation in the legs and sometimes in the arms. This sensation creates an irresistible urge to move. Restless legs syndrome causes sleep disruption and daytime sleepiness. People with restless legs syndrome and subsequent sleep disruption tell of feeling inattentive, moody, and/or hyperactive – all symptoms of ADHD. Because of this and other findings, some researchers believe that people with restless legs syndrome and a subset of people with ADHD may have a common dysfunction in the neurotransmitter dopamine. Restless legs syndrome is diagnosed with a polysomnogram or sleep study. Medications can help both restless legs syndrome and ADHD.
