Healthopedia.com - Your Health
Encyclopedia

Set Homepage Email Page Favorites      

 
  Home
  Health Centers
  Medical Encyclopedia
  Drugs & Medications
  Diseases & Conditions 
  Medical Symptoms
  Medical Tests & Exams
  Surgery & Procedures 
  Injuries & Wounds
  Diet & Nutrition
  Special Topics
  Pictures & Images      


Google
 
Web Healthopedia.com

You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Restless Leg Syndrome: Symptoms & Signs

Restless Leg Syndrome

Alternate Names : Nocturnal Myoclonus, Akathisia

Restless Leg Syndrome | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

A person with restless leg syndrome experiences unusual sensations that usually occur in the legs but sometimes are present in the arms and trunk. The sensations:

  • are described as burning, itching, crawling, pulling, or tugging but are rarely painful
  • occur when the person is inactive and usually get worse at night
  • cause an irresistible urge to move the legs
  • are relieved by leg movements
  • cause jerking movements of the legs when the person is sleeping and occasionally when the person is awake
  • can occasionally cause restless movements of the feet or toes in the evening, when a person is sitting or lying down
  • can make falling asleep difficult and can awaken the person from sleep
  • contribute to fatigue and drowsiness during the day, since the person is not getting a good night's sleep
  • Many people do not think of this sensation in the legs as painful. The symptoms may worsen during periods of emotional upset or stress.


    Previous section

     

    Next section

    Restless Leg Syndrome: Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

     

    Restless Leg Syndrome: Diagnosis & Tests

    Author: James Broomfield, MD
    Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 07/05/01









    Content provided by The Patient Marketing Group, Inc.

    Copyright © 2009 Healthopedia.com All Rights reserved.
    About Us | Help/FAQ | Privacy Policy | Editorial Policy | Advertising Policy | Accessibility | Terms of Use
    Contact Us | Link to Us

    HONcode accreditation seal.

    We comply with the HONcode standard for health trust worthy information: verify here.


    The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call your local emergency number for all medical emergencies. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
    Page Last Updated: 6th April, 2009