Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)

The symptoms of RLS and PLMD may seem similar, but there are major differences.

RLS symptoms

The following symptoms of RLS are most common in the evening when you’re resting or in bed. However, you may experience them in the daytime, too: 

• a strong, almost irresistible urge to move your legs 

• temporary relief or discomfort when you move your legs 

• throbbing, aching, crawling, pulling, and/or itching feelings in your legs

• trouble falling and/or staying asleep

• fatigue

• trouble concentrating

• changes in your mood or behaviour

While RLS mostly affects your legs, you may also experience symptoms in your arms or the rest of your body.

PLMD symptoms

The main symptom of PLMD is:

• jerking or twitching in your legs every 40 seconds or so for up to an hour while you’re asleep

PLMD is most likely to affect the lower parts of your body, including your toes, ankles, legs, knees, and hips. However, some people do experience involuntary movements in their arms. Many people who have PLMD may not realise unless they share a bed with someone who notices and makes them aware.

The root cause of RLS isn’t fully understood. However, research finds that certain factors may contribute. These include:

• being over 50

• genetics (you may inherit RLS from a family member)

• certain medications 

• low iron levels and anaemia 

• pregnancy

• an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, kidney disease, or Parkinson’s disease

The cause of PLMD also hasn’t been identified, although researchers believe it’s linked to a malfunction in your spinal cord. The following factors may also play a role:

• being over 65

• genetics

• certain medications

• aneamia

• diabetes

• smoking

• obesity

• other sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and sleep apnea

If you think you may have RLS or PLMD, your consultants will ask you about your symptoms and medical history at your initial consultation. They may also run blood tests and/or a neurological exam. 

You may also be asked to take part in an at-home sleep study to analyse your breathing and sleep behaviour. They’ll use the results of the study and the other tests to determine if you have RLS or PLMD.

As the causes of RLS and PLMD aren’t known, there isn’t a guaranteed way to prevent them from developing. Taking action to reduce your risk factors, such as stopping smoking, getting enough iron, and maintaining a healthy weight, may help. Treating any underlying conditions may also make a difference. 

If your symptoms are mild, there are things you can try to make them more manageable:

• don’t do vigorous exercise within a few hours before bedtime

• limit your caffeine intake

• practise good sleep habits such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, and not looking at devices or screens in bed

• take a bath or use a hot or cold compress on your affected limbs before bedtime

RLS and PLMD aren’t life-threatening, but they can have a real impact on your life. If they’re left untreated, they can lead to long-term poor sleep, fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

Your consultant will use the results of your sleep study and other tests to determine the right treatment approach for you. Depending on your diagnosis and the cause, this may include:

• taking supplements

• starting a new oral medication

• stopping an existing medication

If they identify any other medical issues, they’ll refer you to an appropriate Welbeck specialist who will provide you with the very best care.

At Welbeck, our respiratory specialists and neurologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.