Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a condition characterized by an urge to move the arms or legs—most commonly the legs—that occurs particularly during periods of rest or sleep. This urge is often accompanied by difficult-to-describe sensations such as numbness, tingling, burning, or pain. Moving the affected limb temporarily reduces or relieves these sensations, even if only for a short time. Although RLS does not cause permanent neurological disability, it can significantly reduce patients’ quality of life.

How common is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?

Although the exact prevalence is unknown because not all patients seek medical attention, studies indicate that RLS may affect up to 15% of the population. One of the important factors influencing prevalence is race. For example, RLS is less common in Asian populations and more frequently observed in individuals of Caucasian descent.

Types of Restless Legs Syndrome

RLS is classified into two types: primary (idiopathic) and secondary.

• In primary RLS, there is no other underlying disease responsible for the condition.
• In secondary RLS, RLS is not a disease itself but rather a symptom caused by another underlying condition.

Both the severity and frequency of RLS increase with age. However, most patients who seek medical care are middle-aged. The onset of RLS during childhood is rare.

Is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) a genetic disease?

The exact cause of RLS is still not fully understood. However, studies have shown that more than half of patients with primary RLS have other family members affected by the condition. This suggests a genetic predisposition to RLS in some families.

Do antidepressant medications cause Restless Legs Syndrome?

Among antidepressants, those that act by altering serotonin reuptake may trigger RLS symptoms or worsen existing symptoms in patients with RLS.

Can Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) be a sign of another disease?

RLS may occur on its own or as a symptom of other medical conditions, known as secondary RLS. These conditions include:

• Iron deficiency
• Chronic kidney failure
• Polyneuropathy

RLS may also develop during physiological states such as pregnancy.

How is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) treated?

Before initiating medication, several non-pharmacological measures should be implemented, including:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Discontinuation of medications that trigger RLS
• Reduction of caffeine intake
• Treatment of iron deficiency

If these measures are insufficient to control symptoms, pharmacological treatment may be initiated.