Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a common sleep-related movement disorder characterized by an often unpleasant or uncomfortable urge to move the legs that occurs during periods of inactivity.
RLS is usually worse in the evening but can also affect individuals when they lie down to sleep. This may mean that it is hard to fall asleep. Even if you do fall asleep, RLS may cause you to wake up several times during the night.
RLS is found in 2-5% of individual with the risk of developing RLS increases with age. Other risk factors for RLS include: family history / genetics, smoking, iron deficiency and increased caffeine / alcohol intake. Medical conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, arthritis and Parkinson’s disease have also been linked to RLS.
