Who is most likely to get RLS?

People of any age, including children, can have RLS. Symptoms of RLS may begin in childhood or adulthood, but the chance of having the syndrome increases significantly with age. RLS is more common in women than in men. Up to 10 percent of the United States population has RLS.

Is Restless Leg Syndrome permanent?

Restless legs syndrome is a lifelong condition that might get worse with age. But some people go into remission and don’t have symptoms for days to years. Keep your doctor updated on how you’re doing. If you start to feel worse, they might suggest different lifestyle changes or medications.

What causes RLS to get worse?

Medications. A number of medications can make RLS worse. In particular, anti-nausea drugs and sedating antihistamines (like Benadryl) block the brain’s dopamine receptors, causing restless legs symptoms. Antidepressants that increase serotonin and antipsychotic medications can also aggravate the condition.

What foods make RLS worse?

If you have RLS, there are also foods that you will want to avoid because they can exacerbate the condition and make your symptoms worse. The top three foods to avoid are chocolate, sugary sodas, and fried foods.

Do neurologists treat RLS?

If your primary care doctor has trouble managing your RLS, you may also need to see a neurologist. This is a doctor who specializes in nervous system disorders. Several nervous system disorders may be involved with RLS.

Is Restless Leg Syndrome serious?

Although RLS doesn’t lead to other serious conditions, symptoms can range from barely bothersome to incapacitating. Many people with RLS find it difficult to fall or stay asleep. Severe RLS can cause marked impairment in life quality and can result in depression.

Does RLS get worse with age?

Restless legs syndrome, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, can begin at any age and generally worsens as you age. It can disrupt sleep, which interferes with daily activities. Simple self-care steps and lifestyle changes may help relieve symptoms.

Is walking good for restless leg syndrome?

Many people with restless legs syndrome (RLS) find that regular, moderate exercise helps relieve symptoms. Think walking, cycling, and swimming. But while some exercise is good, more isn’t better. An overly vigorous workout may make RLS worse.

How does a neurologist diagnose RLS?

Since there is no specific test for RLS, the condition is diagnosed by a doctor’s evaluation. The five basic criteria for clinically diagnosing the disorder are: A strong and often overwhelming need or urge to move the legs that is often associated with abnormal, unpleasant, or uncomfortable sensations.