Overview
Restless legs syndrome is a nerve condition that creates an uncomfortable, crawling or tingling feeling in the legs and a strong urge to move them, mostly in the evening and at night. Moving brings brief relief, but the constant need to shift the legs disturbs sleep. It is often linked to low iron and is common in pregnancy. Treating the underlying cause and simple measures usually help a great deal.
Symptoms
- An uncomfortable urge to move the legs, worse at rest
- Crawling, tingling or pulling sensations deep in the legs
- Symptoms mainly in the evening and night
- Relief on walking or stretching
- Disturbed sleep and daytime tiredness
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if leg sensations disturb your sleep regularly, so iron levels and other causes can be checked.
Causes
Often low iron levels; also pregnancy, kidney disease, diabetes, some medicines and a family tendency.