What are the symptoms of restless legs syndrome?

The discomfort is often deep inside the legs rather than on the skin. People may describe pulling, throbbing, itching, buzzing or a feeling that something is moving. Stretching, walking or shaking the legs can bring temporary relief, but symptoms may return when you sit or lie down. They commonly become more noticeable in the evening and can delay sleep or cause repeated waking. The arms can be affected occasionally.

Keep a short record of when symptoms start, what the sensations feel like, whether movement helps and how sleep is affected. Review medicines and health conditions with a clinician because iron deficiency anaemia and chronic kidney disease can be associated with restless legs. Gentle activity and a regular sleep routine may help, but avoid changing supplements without advice.

Arrange a GP consultation if the sensations repeatedly disturb sleep, make travel or sitting difficult, or are becoming more frequent. Seek prompt help for a swollen, hot or painful single leg, sudden weakness, or new numbness, because those features do not fit the usual restless-legs pattern and need assessment.

Ask whether your symptom pattern fits restless legs syndrome, whether a blood test could check iron levels or other causes, and which treatment or routine changes are suitable for you.