Restless Leg Syndrome Specialist

What is restless leg syndrome?

Restless leg syndrome causes uncomfortable sensations in your legs and feet. These sensations are most noticeable in the evening when you crawl into bed.

Anyone can experience restless leg syndrome, but it’s more common in people who are middle-aged and older. If you’re unable to get a full eight hours of sleep on a regular basis, don’t wait to make an appointment at The Sleep Lab.

What are the symptoms of restless leg syndrome?

The most common symptom of restless leg syndrome is an urge to move your legs. You might also experience:

• Tingling sensations that occur when you sit or lie down
• Relief that occurs after stretching or walking
• Symptoms that worsen as the night progresses
• Twitching or kicking during sleep

The uncomfortable sensations that restless leg syndrome presents affect everyone differently. Some people describe them as throbbing or aching; others say they’re itchy or shock-like. 

When should I see a sleep specialist about restless leg syndrome?

Make an appointment at The Sleep Lab if you regularly experience difficulty falling asleep. That’s especially true if you toss and turn most nights or your partner complains about your kicking and twitching. Diagnosis and treatment can relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

How is restless leg syndrome diagnosed?

To diagnose restless leg syndrome, your provider at The Sleep Lab reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including the type of sensations you experience and if they’re worse at night. 

Next, they conduct a comprehensive physical and neurological exam. Your provider also orders blood work to rule out vitamin deficiencies that might explain your symptoms. If these measures don’t provide enough information about your condition, The Sleep Lab might also schedule an overnight sleep study.

How is restless leg syndrome treated?

Treatment of restless leg syndrome typically includes a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medication. For example, if The Sleep Lab determines your symptoms are the result of an iron deficiency, they might prescribe oral or intravenous supplements.

You might also benefit from:

• Medications that increase dopamine production
• Drugs that affect your calcium channels
• Opioids
• Muscle relaxants
• Sleep medications

Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and help you get a restful and rejuvenating sleep.

To learn more about the treatment options for restless leg syndrome, make an appointment at The Sleep Lab by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.