Symptoms and Diagnosis

You are not alone

RLS is perhaps the most common condition you have never heard of.

Up to 7-8% of the population has this neurological condition with 2–3% experiencing severe symptoms that affect their quality of life and require pharmaceutical treatment to manage their symptoms.

How do I know if I have RLS?
woman on side of bed

In the United States, RLS is believed to affect more than 10 million adults and an estimated 1.5 million children and adolescents. About 40% of those with RLS symptoms are disrupted enough to seek medical attention.

Most studies find that women are at least twice as likely to have RLS than men. RLS is more common in older adults, although it can occur as early as the preschool years.

RLS is not diagnosed through evaluation of patient-reported symptoms. The five primary diagnostic criteria are:

  • An irresistible urge to move the legs usually accompanied or caused by uncomfortable and unpleasant sensations.
  • An onset or worsening of symptoms with rest such as sitting or lying down.
  • Relief with movement. Symptoms are partially or completely relieved by movements such as walking or stretching.
  • Symptoms follow a circadian pattern. Symptoms are worse, or only occur, in the evening or nighttime hours.
  • Exclusion of mimics. Symptoms are not solely accounted for by another condition such as leg cramps, positional discomfort, leg swelling or arthritis.
How do physicians diagnose RLS?

Your physician should:

  • Listen to a description of your symptoms and complete a diagnostic interview checking for symptoms listed under the essential criteria.
  • Review your medical history.
  • Rule out conditions that are often confused with RLS.

Your physician might:

  • Check your iron (ferritin) levels.
  • Ask you to stay overnight in a sleep study lab to determine other causes of your sleep disruption.
How can I prepare for an RLS physician visit?

To ensure you have an effective and efficient physician appointment, come prepared.

  • Bring your complete list of the medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and homeopathic).
  • Bring your complete list of vitamins and supplements.
  • Download and use the Foundation’s Symptoms Diary to track your symptoms, triggers, and bedtime habits.
  • Make a list of questions for your physician in advance.
What is Augmentation?

Some individuals who have RLS may experience a worsening of symptoms as a side effect of a class of RLS medications called dopamine agonists. This effect, called augmentation, is one of the most common but least understood problems encountered in the treatment of RLS.

If augmentation occurs, you and your doctor can work together to find a new treatment strategy that will work for you. Be sure to talk with your doctor before making changes to your regimen.

How can I stay informed?

Preparing for your physician appointments often means doing a bit of research prior. The resources listed below, may help you begin your learning journey. To access the complete list of resources available in the Foundation's Member Portal, log into the Member Portal or Become a Member.

Find a Healthcare Provider

To better serve our members, the Foundation maintains a directory of healthcare providers who have experience and knowledge in the treatment of RLS. You can locate a provider in your area below. 

Healthcare Provider Directory
 

Additional Resources

Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment of RLS

RLS: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

This brochure discusses the symptoms of RLS, possible causes, and different treatment options.

Read More

Patient Symptom Diary

RLS Patient Symptom Diary

Keep a log of your daily symptoms to identify conditions and patterns, to share with your healthcare provider.

Read More

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