Restless legs syndrome can begin at any age and tends to get worse with age. It can disrupt sleep, which interferes with daily activities. RLS also is known as Willis-Ekbom disease. Simple self-care steps and lifestyle changes may help relieve symptoms. Medicines also help many people with RLS.
Restless legs syndrome Diagnosis To diagnose restless legs syndrome, your healthcare professional takes your medical history and asks about your symptoms. A diagnosis of RLS is based on the following criteria, established by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group:
Also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, restless legs syndrome usually occurs in the evening or at night when a person has been sitting or lying down. People describe it as unpleasant sensations in the legs. RLS can feel like a crawling, throbbing or electric sensation. Some people feel symptoms occasionally — while seated for long periods at the theater or on a plane, for example. For others ...
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Lately at night, I sometimes have a crawling sensation in my legs and an irresistible urge to move them. It's happened at least five times over the past month. Could this be restless legs syndrome? If so, how is it diagnosed? What can be done if I do have it? ANSWER: The sensations you describe may be caused by restless legs syndrome (RLS), also called Willis-Ekbom disease ...
Mayo Clinic healthcare professionals have expertise treating sleep conditions and movement conditions. At the Mayo Clinic sleep facilities, experts diagnose and treat RLS. Mayo Clinic researchers are actively involved in studies to better understand RLS and how to treat it — finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life.