How Restless Legs Syndrome is Diagnosed
Talk to your doctor or sleep specialist to explore available treatments. No laboratory test can confirm a diagnosis of RLS, so the condition is often overlooked. To diagnose RLS, your doctor will request:
A medical history
A familial survey to see if anyone else in your family has similar symptoms
Interview about other medical conditions you have
A blood test for low iron levels
Keeping a sleep diary is helpful if you suspect you have RLS. Noting changes in your diet, lifestyle, or sleep habits and routine might help you and your doctor make helpful changes.
Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome
Although no cure exists for Restless Legs Syndrome, different types of treatments can be used to manage the condition and relieve discomfort.
There are three treatment approaches for RLS:
Self-help – If your symptoms are mild, self-help may be sufficient treatment.
Medications – For those with severe RLS, where the disorder disrupts sleep or daily activities, medications may be the proper treatment approach.
Treatment of the underlying condition – If your Restless Legs Syndrome is caused by an underlying condition, your doctor will treat that condition. Treatment of the underlying condition often cures the RLS.
The treatments outlined below are for informational purposes only. Narcolepsy is a serious condition – it's important to consult with your physician to find the treatment that is best for you.
Work with your healthcare professional to determine if there is an exercise program that relieves your RLS symptoms.
Apply compression to your legs
Wrap your legs in an ace bandage or wear tight pantyhose.
Take iron supplements
For individuals with low iron levels, iron supplements sometimes offer relief. Note that too much iron in your system is dangerous, so be sure to speak with your health care professional before starting this type of supplement.
Reduce the use of stimulants and depressants
Cut out coffee, chocolate, and caffeinated soda, particularly in the evening.
Keep a regular sleep schedule
Because exhaustion can increase symptoms, a regular sleep schedule is important to ensuring you get enough rest.
Medical Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome
TREATMENT
DETAILS
Dopaminergic agents (Ropinirole, Pramipexole)
The most common treatment for RLS, these drugs increase the brain chemical dopamine (a neurotransmitter that regulates muscle movements)
Benzodiazepines
Sleep medications or central nervous system depressants which also suppress muscle contractions.
Non-benzodiazepine sedatives
Short-acting hypnotic agents or sleeping pills. Helpful in mild cases of RLS that occur primarily at bedtime.
Opiates/Narcotics (Darvon, Percodan)
Pain killers. These drugs are addictive and should be used only in low dosages.
Anticonvulsants (Neurontin)
Drugs normally used to prevent seizures which can reduce muscle contractions in some individuals.
Hypertensive medications
Most often prescribed for high blood pressure, these drugs can reduce the symptoms of RLS in some individuals.
