Restless legs syndrome (RLS) and periodic limb movement disorder frequently occur together. RLS is defined as unpleasant sensations of the limbs, usually the legs, relieved by movement. Patients have described crawling sensations, legs like lead pipes, itching, burning and involuntary movements. Periodic limb movement disorder is defined by brief twitches or muscle contractions that recur every 5 to 90 seconds, but most often, they occur at 30-second intervals. Patients with RLS complain about an inability to remain still in the evening, difficulty falling asleep and frequent awakenings during the night. Patients with periodic limb movement disorder often complain of daytime sleepiness.
Cause
In most cases of RLS, no specific cause can be identified. Many patients have a family history of the disorder. In some patients, RLS may be caused by damage to nerves, such as with sciatica, diabetes, polio or kidney failure. Iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiencies may cause RLS. RLS is thought become more prevalent with age, but children may also suffer from the syndrome. The cause of periodic limb movements during sleep is unknown.
Signs & Symptoms
Patients with RLS have complaints consistent with the disorder. These include irritating or painful sensations in the legs and involuntary movements. Often patients will complain of trouble falling asleep. Patients also complain of difficulty sitting still for extended periods of time, and have trouble on long plane flights. Medications may trigger RLS symptoms. Consumption of caffeine, smoking, fatigue and hot temperatures may also worsen symptoms.
Diagnosis
Overnight sleep studies are usually not necessary to confirm the diagnosis of Restless Legs Syndrome, but they can be used to diagnose other sleep disorders including periodic limb movement disorder. Sensors are placed on the ankles or the large muscles at the front of the leg to record movements and muscle tension. The recordings are evaluated for the number of leg movements per night and their effect on sleep. Two indexes are calculated, one that represents the number of leg movements per hour of sleep with sleep disruption and one that represents the number of leg movements per hour without sleep disruption. RLS is diagnosed based on patient complaints. The decision to treat is frequently based on both the clinical picture and the results of the polysomnogram.
Treatment
Medications are frequently very effective in controlling the symptoms of RLS and in reducing the number of limb movements during the night. Medications developed for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, such as Mirapex, Requip and Neupro are often used. A variety of other medications can provide relief, such as Horizant, Neurontin, Lyrica, Tegretol, Klonopin and Sinemet. In patients who do not find relief with these medications, sometimes narcotics such as Oxycontin and Vicodin can be effective.
Our Capabilities
The NorthShore University HealthSystem Sleep Disorders Program features multiple clinic sites and three full-service sleep labs, both accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Staff physicians include neurologists and pulmonologists. All are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad variety of sleep disorders.
After a clinical evaluation including a detailed history and physical examination, most patients undergo a polysomnogram. Large, private bedrooms are available in both laboratories for the test. State-of-the-art monitoring equipment is used in both centers. Diplomates of the American Board of Sleep Medicine evaluate the polysomnograms. The results are discussed with the patient as well as their referring physician.