DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Neurological Disease

Restless Legs Syndrome

MODERATE

A neurological disorder causing uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them. Symptoms worse at rest and in the evening/night. Significantly disrupts sleep. Associated with iron deficiency, kidney disease, pregnancy, and certain medications.

Global Affected

150.0M

Countries

89

Symptoms

Uncomfortable leg sensations
Urge to move legs
Worse at rest
Worse in evening/night
Relief with movement
Sleep disturbance
Daytime fatigue
Creeping/crawling sensations

Treatment Options

Iron supplementation
Dopamine agonists
Gabapentin enacarbil
Pregabalin
Benzodiazepines
Opioids (refractory)
Lifestyle modifications
Avoid caffeine/alcohol
Leg massage

Risk Factors

1Iron deficiency
2Chronic kidney disease
3Diabetes
4Pregnancy
5Parkinson's disease
6Family history
7Medications (antidepressants, antihistamines)
8Peripheral neuropathy
9Older age
10Female gender

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Clinical diagnosis (URGE criteria)
  • 2Serum ferritin
  • 3Iron studies
  • 4Polysomnography (if OSA suspected)
  • 5Sleep diary
  • 6International RLS Rating Scale

Prognosis

Chronic condition, often progressive. Symptoms fluctuate. Good response to treatment but augmentation can occur with dopamine agonists. Quality of life improves with therapy.

Prevention

  • Maintain iron stores
  • Regular exercise
  • Avoid caffeine/alcohol
  • Good sleep hygiene
  • Review medications
  • Treat underlying conditions

Research Status

Iron supplementation if deficient. Dopaminergic agents (ropinirole, pramipexole) first-line. Alpha-2-delta ligands (gabapentin, pregabalin) increasingly preferred. Opioids for refractory cases. Treat underlying causes.

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/restless-legs-syndrome
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.