How is restless legs syndrome treated?

A clinician may ask when the urge to move starts, whether movement relieves it and how it affects sleep. A blood test can help look for low iron, anaemia or other contributors. Kidney disease and some medicines can also be relevant. Treatment is tailored to the cause and the pattern of symptoms.

Helpful measures include regular sleep times, gentle leg stretching, walking or massage before bed, and limiting caffeine, nicotine and alcohol in the evening. Keeping a symptom record can show whether a change is helping.

Arrange a GP consultation if the sensations are frequent, worsening or making it hard to sleep. Take a list of medicines and supplements, including products bought without a prescription. Do not start iron supplements without checking your iron status, because unnecessary iron can be harmful.

If symptoms are linked to iron deficiency, treating that deficiency may reduce the urge to move. If self-care and correction of a contributing problem are not enough, a clinician may discuss prescription options and review them for benefit and side effects.

Seek prompt medical advice if poor sleep is affecting concentration, mood, driving or work, or if leg discomfort is accompanied by weakness, numbness or swelling. Sudden one-sided leg swelling with chest pain or breathlessness needs emergency care.

Could low iron, kidney disease or a medicine be contributing to my symptoms? Which tests are appropriate? What changes should I try before prescription treatment, and how will we review whether treatment is helping?