Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sleep-related movement disorder that makes it hard to fall asleep.
People describe crawling, pulling or aching feelings deep in the legs.
Key concepts
- Symptoms worsen at rest and in the evening
- Moving or walking gives relief
- Iron levels should be checked
Symptoms and signs
- Strong urge to move the legs when lying down
- Uncomfortable sensations relieved by stretching
- Leg jerks during sleep noticed by family
Causes
- Low iron stores
- Family tendency
- Kidney disease or nerve problems
Risk factors
- Pregnancy
- Some antidepressants, antihistamines and antipsychotics
- Caffeine, alcohol and smoking
Evidence-based management
- Blood tests for iron and other causes
- Review of current medicines with your doctor
- Leg stretches, walking and warm baths in the evening
- Specific medicines when symptoms are frequent and severe
When to seek professional help
- Symptoms several nights a week
- Started after a new medicine
- Daytime sleepiness affecting work, study or driving
Frequently asked questions
Is restless legs a psychological problem?
No, it is a neurological sleep disorder, but it often causes insomnia, anxiety and low mood.
Can my antidepressant cause it?
Some can. Discuss with your psychiatrist rather than stopping on your own.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics. World Health Organization.
- Behavioral and psychological treatments for chronic insomnia disorder in adults: an American Academy of Sleep Medicine clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 2021.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
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