RLS

RLS (restless legs syndrome) is a neurological disorder that is characterized by uncomfortable feelings in the legs. In an effort to relieve these feelings, most patients with RLS will have an almost uncontrollable urge to move during inactivity. Although RLS can begin at any age, most patients who are severely affected are middle-aged or older. Approximately 12 million Americans are affected by this disorder.

 

An Introduction to RLS

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an almost uncontrollable urge to move when at rest in an effort to relieve these feelings.
 

Who Does RLS Affect?

Some researchers estimate that RLS affects as many as 12 million Americans. However, other researchers believe that the number of people affected by RLS is much greater because RLS can be easily confused with other conditions. Therefore, RLS is under-diagnosed and, in some cases, misdiagnosed. Some people with RLS do not seek medical attention because they believe that they will not be taken seriously, that their symptoms are too mild, or that their condition is not treatable. And, in some cases, doctors wrongly attribute the symptoms of RLS to nervousness, insomnia, stress, arthritis, muscle cramps, or aging.
 
RLS occurs in both genders, although the incidence may be slightly higher in women. Although the syndrome may begin at any age, even as early as infancy, most patients who are severely affected are middle-aged or older.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD