Sleep Disorders - Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

People who experience Restless Legs Syndrome often describe a very unpleasant "crawly, creepy" sensation that occurs in the legs (or sometimes the arms) when they are sitting or lying still, especially at bedtime. This sensation most often appears in the calves of the legs, and it is temporarily relieved by stretching and moving the legs.

In severe cases, this constant need to stretch or move the legs prevents a person from falling asleep, resulting in extreme fatigue during the day. This can affect a person's ability to work or interact in social settings.

This daytime sleepiness isn't the only daytime problem that is caused by Restless Legs Syndrome. RLS can also interfere with people sitting for periods of time in cars, airplanes, meetings, and movies. This combination of sleepiness and daytime disruption can lead to anxiety and depression.

It is estimated that between 5 and 10 people of every 100 people experience RLS sometime in their lives. It is more common the older a person is, and RLS can also occur during pregnancy.