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Frequently Asked Questions About Restless Legs Syndrome

If you suspect that you may have restless legs syndrome, the biggest question on your mind is, "Do I have Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?" One way to find out if you need to explore further in order to find out the answer to this question is to ask yourself the following questions:

Do you frequently feel strong urges to move your legs or arms and you cannot ignore these uncomfortable urges?

Do you feel strange sensations in your limbs that resemble creepy crawlies?

Do these strange sensations in your limbs begin or become worse in the evening or when you try to sleep?

When you move your limbs does it help to bring some relief to these strange sensations?

Does your partner ever tell you that your limbs twitch at night while you are sleeping?

Do you ever find that you are really dragging during the day, feeling very tired?

Here are some other symptoms that you may ask yourself if you have ever experienced?

Have you ever had a strong urge to move your legs or arms?

Is it impossible to resist the urge to move your limbs?

Have you ever used any of the following list of words to describe the sensations you feel in your legs or arms?

creepy, crawly, tugging, pulling sensations

When you are resting or sitting do you often feel these sudden and intense urges to move your limbs?

Do you ever complain of needing to move you legs while laying in bed at night?

Has your bed partner ever complained about your legs or arms jerking while you are sleeping?

Has a doctor ever told you that there is absolutely nothing wrong with you and yet you still feel uncomfortable?

If you find yourself being all too familiar with these situations and can say that yes these things have happened to you, then you should seek an examination from a doctor experienced in diagnosing and treating RLS.

One of the major complaints heard from individuals who have been diagnosed with RLS is that they have a great deal of difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep at night due to these strange sensations in their legs. They are often awoken by involuntary jerks from their limbs or their partners are awoken by the involuntary jerks from your limbs. These jerks can happen every 20 to 30 seconds all throughout the night, which can really disrupt your sleep pattern. Sleep deprivation is a serious matter that can negatively affect your work, home life, relationships and your health.

Another question you may have is, "How do I find a healthcare provider that is experienced in diagnosing and treating restless legs syndrome?"

The RLS Foundation provides individuals with a Healthcare Provider Directory that can be assessed online by going to:

http://www.rls.org/NETCOMMUNITY/Page.aspx?&pid=471&srcid=469

And click on "Find a Doctor".

You can also find a RLS provider by first locating a RLS group in your area. Support Group Leaders often know the names and addresses of RLS providers in the area.

If your area has a "local medical society" you may be able to contact the society and ask for possible names and addresses of any member who has experience with RLS.

Don't forget your doctor, a good source of referrals.

The American Medical Association can also be a good source of information for locating providers.

Always ask questions regarding treatment options and medications, especially concerning side effects.