A – Z of Illnesses & Conditions

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Restless legs syndrome is a condition affecting the nervous system in which your legs, and occasionally your arms feel extremely uncomfortable. It also causes an unpleasant feeling in the feet, calves and thighs, which is often felt as a crawling or creeping sensation.  It usually happens in the evenings while you are sitting or lying down. It makes you feel like getting up and moving around. When you do so, the unpleasant feeling of restless legs syndrome temporarily goes away.

Restless legs syndrome can begin at any age and generally worsens as you age. Restless legs syndrome is also associated with involuntary jerking of the legs and arms, known as periodic limb movements.

Women are twice as likely to develop restless legs syndrome than men. The condition is also more common in middle age, but the symptoms can develop at any age, including childhood. Restless legs syndrome can disrupt sleep leading to daytime drowsiness and make traveling difficult.

If the symptoms of RLS are more severe, see your doctor as medication may be needed.