Diagnosis
Your Neurologist will take your medical history and ask for a description of your symptoms. A diagnosis of RLS is based on the following criteria, established by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group:
• You have a strong, often irresistible urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
• Your symptoms start or get worse when you're resting, such as sitting or lying down.
• Your symptoms are partially or temporarily relieved by activity, such as walking or stretching.
• Your symptoms are worse at night.
• Symptoms can't be explained solely by another medical or behavioral condition.
Your Neurologist may conduct a physical and a neurological exam. Blood tests, particularly for iron deficiency, may be ordered to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms.
In addition, your neurologist may refer you to a sleep specialist. This may involve an overnight stay and a study at a sleep clinic if another sleep disorder such as sleep apnea is suspected. However, a diagnosis of RLS usually doesn't require a sleep study.
Your Neurologist will take your medical history and ask for a description of your symptoms. A diagnosis of RLS is based on the following criteria, established by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group:
• You have a strong, often irresistible urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
• Your symptoms start or get worse when you're resting, such as sitting or lying down.
• Your symptoms are partially or temporarily relieved by activity, such as walking or stretching.
• Your symptoms are worse at night.
• Symptoms can't be explained solely by another medical or behavioral condition.
Your Neurologist may conduct a physical and a neurological exam. Blood tests, particularly for iron deficiency, may be ordered to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms.
In addition, your neurologist may refer you to a sleep specialist. This may involve an overnight stay and a study at a sleep clinic if another sleep disorder such as sleep apnea is suspected. However, a diagnosis of RLS usually doesn't require a sleep study.
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